Western Washington University Reviews

Check out reviews left by other students or leave your own review. You could win a free scholarship.

Patricia from Brush Prairie, WA

07/29/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

33 out of 33 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students committed to the environment and sustainability will align with Western’s green practices, from their recycling program to the swarms of bikers to their support of real food movements (local, organic, fair trade food). Not to mention, the outdoor enthusiast will find plenty of places to climb, board, hike, kayak, sail around and near Bellingham (Mt. Baker, anyone?). Anybody interested in social change, whether you’re gaga for politics or love volunteering, will find excellent ways to get involved either on campus or off. Western students have endless enthusiasm for campus, community, and world issues with good reason—only the proactive and self-motivated survive here. Lovers of all things indie will find a thriving local music scene and great (and cheap) concerts at Western and in Seattle.

Tips for prospective students

Invest in a pair of rain boots and a high quality jacket. When you have to walk through the lake that was once Red Square, you’ll thank me! Go to Info Fair before classes start in the fall. Not only will you get more detail on opportunities, but you can win gear, get some grub, and will never have to buy a pen (ever). If you enjoy reading the newspaper, grab a free copy of The New York Times by the library before you head to class. Attend at least one Open Mike Night on a Tuesday in the Underground Coffee House for laughs and lyrics. Study tip: If you’re looking for a reliable computer to work on, then make the trek to the 3rd floor of the Academic Instructional Center. Library and other academic building labs tend to be full or faulty, but these labs are the most recently constructed. Going to a school wondering ‘what will this school do for me?’ is not nearly as productive and engaging as ‘what can I do for this school?’ Produce real change at Western by serving on a committee, council, or the Student Senate, or by attending a forum. Western tries to put as many students as possible in jobs and positions that affect how the school is run. You make this school as prestigious, accommodating, and fun as you want it to be. I’ve presented a lot of options, but really the depth, not the breadth of what you pursue on campus determines whether or not you have a fulfilling experience. Invest in whatever gets you truly excited.

Bang for the buck

If you choose your professors wisely, enroll for up to 18 credits (it costs the same as less credits), use the resources that your tuition fees cover, and buy used textbooks, then you’re getting a great deal. Tuition prices are very reasonable, but increasing, and so the best way to get the biggest bang for your buck is to get involved and use all of the resources. The Scholarship Center, Technology Center, Writing Center, Student Employment Office, and Viking Union are excellent places to start. Plenty of events on campus offer free food, music, film, art, lectures, prizes, games—you name it. Facebook and the Viking Union will keep you posted on all the happenings. When you buy textbooks, check out the coupon booklet they give you at the register that’s loaded with discounts. Also, take advantage of free PE classes during the first week of every term since it’s a great way to vary your workout and meet new people. Western constantly strives to better their campus community and the university experience through their resources. Even with budget cuts, WWU looks for ways to offer their students uncompromised, high quality education. Learning isn’t just about listening to a lecture, or writing down notes, but doing. Do everything you can to succeed and you will.

Am enjoying being here

Walking through Red Square between classes, you’ll see booths for activities, clubs, and causes along with random student stunts and skits. Red Square is like the living room of WWU and reflects the quirky, energetic students that call WWU home. Since WWU’s enrollment is midsized (around 13,000), you will not feel lost among swarms of people and will have plenty of opportunities to get involved in student leadership that might not be presented at other, larger universities. Although you don’t get the “big school” sports craze, most students here are very athletic, and so you’re more likely to play sports than watch them here (intramurals). The Recreation Center is a great facility and I would highly encourage working out regularly. My days at Western are full, active, enjoyable days. Everything I learn inside and outside the classroom makes me glad to be here. Not to mention, Bellingham is a beautiful city with entertainment and personality that’s only 90 minutes from the bustling Seattle scene or Vancouver, British Columbia.

Am learning a lot

WWU’s faculty can be characterized as innovative, challenging, and accommodating. Most every classroom is equipped with the technology to allow for multi-media presentations, so you will never have a talking head professor. The professors try to cater to every type of learner through these different mediums and apply what you learn to the real world. For me, this type of instruction included completing a project that will be used by Western faculty and affect the way they teach. You will never go hungry for knowledge with the fast paced and interactive classroom environment. Speaking up and speaking out in class is common, encouraged, and the best way to solidify class concepts. If you need help, want to talk more in-depth about a topic, just ask your professors. They’re accessible and very willing to work with you, provide feedback, or write letters of reference. Talk to students, scan www.ratemyprofessors.com and choose your professors wisely. WWU also has an excellent library with the Interlibrary Loan (ILLiad) and Summit catalog as well as an extensive article database for writing papers. If you ever struggle, your peers at the Tutoring Center will be right there with you to sort out whatever complicated idea you’re trying to wrap your brain around.

Stephanie from Spokane, WA

07/27/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

17 out of 17 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Honestly, Western's got a little bit of everything. Despite it's reputation as a granola or hippy school, Western has one of the most diverse campuses in the state. A lot of people here are very athletic and enjoy running up to Mt. Baker to ski or snowboard in the winter, but just as many enjoy biking or hiking on any of the area trails. Also, with Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands, and Seattle such a short distance away, there's always something to do! Western is a very accepting community and it seems almost impossible not to fit in here!

Tips for prospective students

While at Western, don't be afraid to try new things! There is an information fair each fall a couple of days before school starts and all the clubs and various student organizations turn out to connect to students and get people involved in the student community. If you love sports but find that you aren't exactly varsity material, give intramural sports a try! These are student run sports teams that compete against each other throughout their season, and there's even a tournament at the end of the season to decide the season's champion. The winner even gets The Shirt to show that he's won! Also, membership to the student rec center is included with tuition, so be sure to make the most out of that and try a class or two at the rec center. No matter your level of physical fitness, the rec center has something for everyone!

Bang for the buck

Having just finished my first year at Western, I can honestly say that my time there thus far has been well worth the price. I have absolutely loved living in Bellingham, and being a part of the Western community is a ton of fun! Not only are classes fun and engaging, but there is always something going on on campus. Advisors and professors make themselves easily available to students, and the campus Tutoring Center is another great resource for helping students to succeed. I lived in the dorms this past year and found it to be comfortable and enjoyable. I would recommend that all students try living on campus for a year just for the experience if nothing else. In comparison to some other colleges around the state, Western definitely gives you the most bang for your buck.

Am enjoying being here

There is always something going on at Western, and Bellingham is a beautiful city. The campus is on top of a hill overlooking gorgeous Bellingham Bay and the eastern side of the San Juan Islands. Residential living is very comfortable, and the residence hall staff does their best to make sure that everyone feels comfortable and included in their new environments. It's difficult to be bored when you're living in Bellingham: Boulevard Park is located right on the water and is only a short walk from campus; downtown is also within walking distance of campus, and there are a multitude of shops and restaurants that are frequented by students. Each student gets a city bus pass with tuition, and the transit system is very easy to navigate.

Am learning a lot

Aside from some 100 level classes, class sizes are generally small (at most 20-30 students), allowing for more one-on-one time between students and professors. In my experience, all of my professors have made themselves very available to students and have offered plenty of opportunities for extra help if needed. Classes are engaging and professors are very enthusiastic about their subjects, making learning all the more enjoyable.

Alyssa from Carpinteria, CA

08/19/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

16 out of 16 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Western and Bellingham is a great place for students who care about the environment and making it a greener place. Bellingham is very big on the recycling and compost and once you come an leave you will be too. It is also great for those interested in all sorts of outdoor activities because you can find about pretty much anything to do. Bellingham is a great place for those who don't want to have the big city feel but still have many of the same resources as one.

Tips for prospective students

If you are from out of area, like I was, I recommend making sure you know about the area you are moving into. Bellingham is a great place but the weather does get to some people and can make it seem like you hate the school. Make sure you have a good pair of rain boots and high quality rain coat. Its no fun walking through the slippery, puddled bricks on campus in tennis shoes and jeans and having to go to class sopping wet. Western students have a very laid back personality and everyone that I ever dealt with was very friendly. The bus system is a great way to get around and can take you pretty much anywhere.

Bang for the buck

Even though Western has been quite expensive being an out of state student I do have to say after my first year it was all worth it even if it may be a little high priced. Western makes sure to put every dollar to pay to use and aren't cutting you out of anything!

Am enjoying being here

Western is a place with many opportunities. The Outdoors center on campus offers many activities for those interested in the outdoors and even those interested in just trying. When there are sporting events on campus they are a fun even to attend and everyone gets very into the Viking mood. Bellingham is a wonderful city to explore with many different activities you can find to do. It’s also not to far from Mt. Baker, Seattle or Vancouver, BC where many students tend to spend their weekends throughout the year. Just go after what you are interested in and you can usually find a group of people interested in the same.

Am learning a lot

My experience with Westerns professors is challenging yet very helpful in accommodating to the needs of students if they choose to ask for help. Being a student that speaks up in class and encourages the teacher to go further in depth is highly recommended and it shows the students understanding to the professor and gives more advantages to those students. Almost all professors encourage you to come and speak with them outside of class if you have any questions ranging from you are confused to you believe what they are saying can be challenged. I recommend talking to previous students and using rate my professor when picking what classes you enroll in because it does make a huge difference. The tutoring services at Western are highly recommended also. I personally used them for math several times throughout the year. They make it so it is available to all students and those working it are very helpful.

Erin from Olympia, WA

08/24/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

13 out of 13 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Western is great for people who enjoy the outdoors. Between Bellingham Bay, and Lakewood (Western's boathouse on a nearby lake where you can rent a sailboat, kayak or wind board for $4) there are many opportunities for water sports. Also, Mount Baker is a quick drive away and their are incredible hiking, camping, mountain climbing and biking opportunities in Bellingham. Academically I can speak as a science student. In my first year of college I was able to use equipment unavailable to students at a larger school like UW until their junior or senior years. Western has their own marine center at Shannon point and their are numerous research opportunities with the professors.

Tips for prospective students

Remember, even when it seems like you'll need a boat to cross the mudpuddles, the sun will return. Don't forget to have fun.

Bang for the buck

College is always expensive. As far as tuition goes Western is comparable to any other university, campus housing and meal plans are the same ridiculous price as anywhere else, the difference for me has been the amount of financial aid offered. Even with the present economic condition Western still is offering financial aid through scholarships and grants. For the education I'm receiving and the experiences I'm accruing Western is amazing.

Am enjoying being here

Western has a beautiful campus no matter the time of year and Bellingham itself is delightful, whenever I need a break from school I can walk downtown or take a bus to Fairhaven. One of the reasons I chose Western was because it is so close to the Puget Sound and I don't regret the decision. I have made wonderful friends and the campus is extraordinarily friendly and welcoming. I have never felt unsafe on campus even walking late at night. It's easy to have fun.

Am learning a lot

I am a sophomore science major in the honors program. Between the two programs I have taken courses that have challenged me and pushed me to improve. Like any other activity you get as much out of college as you put in and Western has a lot to offer for those who are willing. The professors are fantastic and genuinely interested in their class matter. They are supportive and, like any good teacher, encourage you to do the best you can. Having an enthusiastic professor can make all the difference. Western is a great atmosphere for learning.

If you have a decent GPA and good test scores seriously look into getting into the honors program. The director Dr. Mariz is awesome, and all of the teachers are great. Try to get Margaritis for Honors 103!!

Bang for the buck

It is spendy for an out of state student, and as they continue to make budget cuts most likely not worth the costs. It is also super expensive to live on or off campus, and food prices in Washington are much higher than in Minnesota. If I were an in state student it would be awesome. As it is I am looking into transferring.

Am enjoying being here

The people are great at the school, and there are plenty of activities to participate in at the school and around Bellingham. It's a great town.

Am learning a lot

All of my teachers are amazing, and have so much to teach. The honors program especially has great teachers, and I highly recommend them. There are a few teachers that are not as good, be sure to ask around during your first quarter to find out who not to take classes from.

Connor from Bellingham, WA

12/13/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Western is a very progressive school. Anybody wishing to study education will be delighted by the different education programs offered at WWU. It is home to one of the oldest Environmental colleges in the country and also houses Fairhaven College, which is an alternative style program designed to give students a much more intimate education designed around group dialogue and community exploration.

Tips for prospective students

If you are considering attending WWU there are a few things to keep in mind. The lower level classes can become quite large and reach over 200 students. Once you get into your discipline though class sizes drop dramatically and most students are able to receive some great one on one experience. With this in mind it is very important to speak up in classes. It can be very easy to be intimidated in a large classroom but by adding to the classroom discussion it becomes very easy to create a small classroom feel.

Bang for the buck

Western is a moderately priced school and offers a great education for the money.

Am enjoying being here

Bellingham WA is one of the greatest small cities in America. It is situated right at the northwest corner of Washington and sits between the Ocean, Canada, and Mt. Baker which holds the world record for annual snowfall. Western fits perfectly into this atmosphere and provides the feeling of a small community within a decently sized and well respected University. The people here are very open and extremely friendly. There are a lot of very different characters around campus and embracing that diversity is a core goal at WWU.

Am learning a lot

Like any University, Western has it's good professor's as well as the bad ones. However, the large majority of professors here are extremely good at what they do. They are here because they love to teach, and it shows. Many of them are prepared to dedicate their own personal time to help students who are willing to put in the same effort. Many of my own professors have not only been good educators but have come to be close friends as well.

Anthony from Seattle, WA

01/04/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

IF you are a student that enjoys the outdoors and like nature, Western is almost the ideal place to go. There is a great view of the Bellingham Bay at the Viking Commons (1/3 of WWU Dining Halls) There is also an arboretum that you can explore as well.

Tips for prospective students

When entering as a freshmen you do not want to take courses that are too difficult. Take classes that you can handle and gradually get acclimated with the college lifestyle. Get involved in clubs, intramurals, or other extra curricular activities that will enable you to meet people from other parts of the state or country.

Bang for the buck

Bellingham is not too far or too close from where I live, which is in Seattle. It is not a large urban city but it is peaceful for the most part. Class sizes are not enormous aside from the few hundreds in lecture classes. And the courses you select depends on how thoroughly you look into what your class structures are like to see if you can mange it or not.

Am enjoying being here

Western is not too big such as other colleges in the state of Washington (UW) but it is not too small either. It's the perfect size to meet people and get around campus and the city. It gets very cold at times but that just comes along with the weather in the Pacific Northwest. The recreational center is very nice, there are basketball/volleyball courts, rock wall, swimming pool, weight room, lounge area and the equipment works great!

Am learning a lot

Being here at Western you learn in the classroom as well as outside of the classroom. But I assume like any other colleges, there are classes that get pretty dull or some of the material may not be delivered in the right fashion to some students. Just utilize your resources online and friends if possible about which professors have the most effective teaching methods. Outside of the classroom you learn to be independent if living away from home and you learn a lot about others who come from different backgrounds.

Hannah from Camas, WA

03/14/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Western is great for students who want a rigorous course load as well as for students who would rather not work as hard. It all depends on the courses you select. For a student who picks courses like I do (challenging ones), I'd say that Western has a chill social atmosphere and a rigorous and creative academic perspective. Mostly, this is a school for youthful, energetic, and liberally intellectual minds.

Tips for prospective students

Get to know your professors! Sit towards the front and answer questions in class so they know that you're keeping up with the reading. Make sure to impress professors that are teaching a course that is integral to your major, because you never know if that professor will be able to pull some strings for you in the future.

Bang for the buck

This school is relatively inexpensive compared to other universities, especially if you live in state. The problem is that we just had budget cuts, so I would recommend that prospective students keep track of the cost of this school's tuition and other expenses. The same is probably true for a lot of schools in Washington and across the country. Overall though, I feel as though my finances are VERY manageable here. I never feel strapped for cash. That being said, I must also let you know that I spend most of my money on important stuff like food, and I cut most other expenses.

Am enjoying being here

Bellingham is absolutely beautiful. The view from the Viking Commons dining hall is breathtaking. The entire campus is paved in brick and it lies in the middle of a forest. The atmosphere is friendly and trusting, and everyone's willing to help one another out. Vikings ride bicycles and longboards and wear woolen sweaters and moccasins. We're pretty much in British Columbia, so be prepared for cold winters :) The professors and administrators are patient and know what they're talking about. George Mariz, the head of the honors program, is a sweet guy and an excellent instructor. He is the advisor for honors students, so if you have any questions just Google him and you can find his contact info!

Am learning a lot

If you're looking into Western's Honor's Program, this review will probably be helpful for you! If not, you might still get something out of it :) My name's Hannah and I'm working towards multiple degrees in neuroscience and biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or psychology. Let me start this by saying that I was blown away at the difference between high school and this university. The professors here care so much more than my previous instructors. If you don't understand something and you need extra help, they will go out of their ways just to make it clearer for you. The learning isn't just text book based, either. My life experience has grown tremendously since I started going to classes here. Western is all about being green. No, I mean really. Other institutions say that they're green, but they ain't got nothin' on Western! Throwing away recyclable stuff is pretty much a sin here. Classes for honors students cap at about 25 students, so the likelihood of being overlooked is minimized. Even in non-honors classes and lectures, there are fewer students than in other, larger universities. I do have one course with about 400 students, but it's an elective course. Also, I feel over 9,000X more educated since I arrived here.

Alexis from Sammamish, WA

10/12/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you enjoy the outdoors, can appreciate a good cup of coffee, have a passion for the arts, never use an umbrella when it's raining, have an eclectic taste in music, or love puddle jumping, you will fit right in at Western!

Tips for prospective students

Come with an open mind. I guarantee you will love it at Western if you take the time to meet new people, try new things, and get involved.

Bang for the buck

Western's tuition is comparable to other universities in Washington state, and most students receive financial aid. The quality of the professors and the opportunities you will receive as a Western student make the cost of attending college absolutely worth it.

Am enjoying being here

Bellingham is a quiet, laid-back town that offers many opportunities to have fun off campus. Hiking, kayaking, cliff jumping (I'm not kidding), and enjoying coffee at one of the many local cafes in town are some of the popular activities for students. Western is also wonderful about hosting events for students, including concerts and movie nights. There are also many clubs on campus that range from sports to volunteering to the unique (like the Harry Potter club).

Am learning a lot

Classes are challenging but always interesting. As an incoming freshman you have a wide selection of course offerings, allowing you to take classes in almost any discipline while working towards completing your graduation requirements. WWU also offers many different majors so almost every student will find a major that they enjoy.

Travis from Kent, WA

01/26/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who are serious about having fun with their studies and their friends. Students who like good food, community and hilarious professors. Students who don't know exactly what they want to do but know they want the college experience as a whole. Students that like relaxing and absorbing as much as possible from everyone around them. Students who appreciate a beautiful view and are pulled towards sheer fun.

Tips for prospective students

When first arriving at the school no matter how awkward you may feel, do your best to go around and meet new people because you will most definitely run into them again whether it be a class or just on campus. The population is over 14,000 people now but it seems that no matter what the numbers you always seem to see those that you have met before. Another tidbit of information is to take the tour of campus and go around as often as possible to the different buildings on your free time and go inside to find the best study spots because you will be needing those down the road. For the most part everyone is friendly up here at Western and in Bellingham so don't be afraid to smile and enjoy yourself here. Oh, side note, get acquainted with Bellingham! It is an amazing town with some of the coolest spots any town could ask for. You will consider yourself fortunate to be in such a friendly, fun, relaxed place while chasing after your career.

Am enjoying being here

One of the greatest things about Western Washington University is the feeling you get when walking around campus as though nothing is hidden from your view and you have access to everything that your heart desires. Campus is such a comfortable environment to be in and I cannot think of any place on its location that doesn't have something to cherish. whether it be the Viking Union where you can just hangout with your friends and visit the bookstore looking at all the different school supplies and clothes you hope to one day be able to afford or sitting in the Viking Commons eating lunch while looking out over the bay and enjoying the view and the scenery that most definitely defines Bellingham as whole. Although the weather outside can be frightful, the people are so delightful and the professors are so helpful! College is an amazing experience and it really allows you to find out who you want to be but also who you have become so far. In high school who you were was defined by the classes you went to and the people you hung out with but in college the people you hangout with and the classes you take are defined by who you want to be and what you are interested in pursuing as a chance to show everyone how amazing you are. Western Washington University is your location to do this. We're up and coming so why not be part of the frenzy and join in on the fun that's going down in Bellingham, WA.

Am learning a lot

There is a huge variety of programs that you can take up here which is something considering it's strictly a liberal arts college. WWU is a great place to learn things that you never even knew existed in the world we live in today. One of the greatest things about the school is that every professor is not just teaching but also learning with you because they constantly encourage conversation in class on the issues that we are faced with today and in our past. The recognize us as the future and want to make sure that we can contribute as much as possible to that future. I've only been here for a year and a half but I have developed some very strong opinions about the school and its way that it goes about teaching its students. I have not run into a bad professor yet and even though it is still early in the game I'm extremely confident that the quality of my education will not cease to satisfy my needs.

Student from Duvall, WA

02/04/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Washingtonians (you know there's just something special about Washington), nature lovers, environmental activists (we are VERY eco-friendly here, and especially known for it), any activist for that matter (there is always volunteering going on), future educators (also known for our great education program), people that want the college experience but not just the typical brick buildings with tens of thousands of students.

Tips for prospective students

Get out there. Say hello to people you sit next to, make conversation, get to know the people and places around you. Be curious, innovative, creative, and bold. If you go to WWU be prepared to become one with nature. It's usually rainy and windy so get a good raincoat and a pair of rain-boots. If you don't know if this is the place for you, spend a day here. Really get into it; sit in on a class, explore campus, explore downtown Bellingham, see a dorm room, talk to current and past students. You won't know what it is really like till you see it but once you do, you should know, it's a very open and welcoming campus.

Bang for the buck

For in state, WWU definitely gives you bang for the buck. It is a very good school, often rated as one of the best in the pacific northwest, while still being very moderately priced. There are also lots of scholarships and financial aid, as well as lots of amenities and options for everyone. Western really encourages its students to go out into the world and do something instead of just sitting in a room listening to lectures.

Am enjoying being here

The environment here is so homey, but still not out in the middle of nowhere. Bellingham is a lovely town with lots of things to do and places to explore and the people here are amazing. Bellingham and the campus are the types of places where you can walk down the sidewalk and smile at strangers who will smile back. And there is a place for everyone, whether you are into zombies and video games or into hiking through the woods, you will definitely be happy once you find your niche (which isn't hard).

Am learning a lot

Going to WWU you'll get an all-encompassing education. Because it is a liberal arts school you get to take a little bit of everything but still get to cater to your interests. For example, you have to take some science but you can take anything from biology to astronomy. You also don't feel like just a number because the usual big lecture classes are usually only 200 or so students, which is definitely enough to feel comfortable in and talk to the teachers (who do the teaching, not TAs, and they love what they do).

Kyle from Shoreline, WA

02/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

there are not any criminal acts on campus that i have heard of during the six months i lived on campus. there are emergency help stations throughout the campus that you can activate, and public safety will promptly respond and show up to your aid.

Greek Life

there is no greek system at wwu. this, i believe, is one of the upsides. there is no drama with getting into a fraternity or sorority, and definitely not as much untimely partying... save it for the weekends!

Clubs and Activities

there are hundreds of clubs ad western, one for almost any type of activity. they meet regularly and are (sometimes) funded by the associated student body. they are easy to get involved in and very welcoming and friendly.

Great for these types of students

great for students who are outdoorsy, are looking for a moderately good to excellent education (depending on your definition of good education), and who would appreciate the absence of a greek system.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

there is an arboretum on the east side of campus, with a watchtower, rope swing, and a couple of small log cabins.

Bang for the buck

without the aid of scholarships, living on campus and tuition can become quite expensive, but not nearly as much as university of washington, or any private school. with many highly acclaimed departments, an education here can be as good or better than any competing school.

What to do for fun

mt. baker is only about an hour and twenty minute drive from campus, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, camping, and skiing or snowboarding. downtown bellingham offers countless excellent restaurants and shops, and there are quite a few parks near by. larrabee state park is an excellent place to go on a hike, or go family camping.

Food and Dining

the food is decent most of the time, and sometimes very good. there are many options on campus including the three dining halls located near each cluster of dorms. there are several markets throughout the campus, one or more in each cluster of buildings, each with high quality, but most of the time expensive food and drink for sale.

Dorm Life

a lot of awesome people live in the dorms at western. making friends is really easy most of the time, and the buildings are of nice quality (most of them). wireless internet is not present in all the buildings, which can be tedious at times, but not too much of a hassle. wasn't too difficult to become adjusted to.

Academic Rigor

moderately challenging, the strictness of what you would expect of a college, but in many beginning classes the workload of what you might not expect of a college.

Tips for prospective students

you will love the campus and the people that live here. the classes are challenging but not overkill for a college freshman.

In three sentences

beautiful campus full of friendly, welcoming people. a diverse amount of academic programs with excellence in many. in the middle of an awesome town with many attractions and places to go.

Endless clubs. Anything you could possibly think of has been made into a club.

Great for these types of students

Outdoorsy people who want to make life their own.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year there is a Humans versus Zombies game which is campus wide. Basically a big game of tag with Nerf guns. There are dozens of art sculptures hidden around the campus.

Bang for the buck

Western is a middle priced school and I think you get a lot for the price of tuition. Not only do you get a great school, but you get an amazing environment to be a part of. I would love to live in Bellingham when I graduate because of how nice it is.

What to do for fun

If you have something that you like to do outdoors, Western has it. It's close to a ski resort, it's located on the bay, there are lakes, hiking trails, hills, etc. There is a downtown area very close which has a very vibrant night life (and during the day too). Plus there are hundreds of clubs to be a part of. Everything from playing Pokemon to building a race car.

Food and Dining

Some people like Western's food options, I was not impressed. It wasn't terrible, but it was almost like eating fast food every meal. I am very happy not to have a meal plan next quarter.

Dorm Life

Honestly I'm not a fan of the dorm life. Western's dorm life is fun and interesting but I am not the kind of person to enjoy it. Next year I will be living off campus and I am very much looking forward to that.

Academic Rigor

Western is what you make it. You can skate by with easy classes and pick the lowest possible GUR to get your requirements in, or you can push yourself and have a very challenging curriculum. Everything is up to you, which prepares you for the real world; and if you put in the effort it will pay off.

Tips for prospective students

Keep your head up and give college everything you have to offer because it may be the last time you get to do so. Stay in shape because you'll be walking all over enjoying the beautiful campus and it's surrounding area. Involve yourself in as many campus activities as you can; whether that means HvZ or something relative to your major. If you do not put in the effort, it will show.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a nice school with a small town feel while still enjoying the beautiful waterfront location. With countless outdoor activities you will never be bored on the weekends when you run out of homework, and you will always have something new to show your friends/family when they visit. Western is everything you need in a college, and makes you feel right at home.

Katherine from Pullman, WA

11/09/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

I would say that Western is great for anybody who is looking for a medium-sized school to go to. It's just big enough that there will always be people you don't know, but small enough that you can walk across campus in roughly ten minutes and probably run into some familiar faces on the way!! They also have sporting events and teams for those who are interested, but sports is not a huge focus which is great! It's a great community for anyone!

Tips for prospective students

You should definitely try to get involved on campus, even if it's just with one or two clubs. It's so worth it because you get to meet so many new people and it's so much more fun when you get involved! Also, don't be afraid to go into a professor's office hours to talk to them and get help if you need it. Most of the time, they are very willing to help you and want you to do well! It also helps to get to know your professors a little bit!

Bang for the buck

Most of the professors I've had have been excellent! I can't complain at all! They make the effort to make their classes interesting and to help their students learn the material and do well in the course and that's what I'm paying for. Especially once you get to upper level classes, the smaller class size allows professors to get to know their students on a more personal level and it's really great! Speaking from personal experience, Western has GREAT language programs as well. The French and Spanish departments especially are amazing!! I encourage everyone to take some language courses!

Am enjoying being here

I can honestly say that I love it at Western! I've met some amazing people from all different backgrounds and cultures. Western has so many cultural heritage related clubs that makes it really easy for you to either connect with your heritage or learn about a different culture! It's easy to become involved on campus if you want to be! Aside from that, it's located in a beautiful place and there's just enough to do around town without it getting to be too big city.

Am learning a lot

Depending on what your major is and what classes you choose to take, you have the opportunity to learn a lot at Western. Some classes are easy-A courses, a few of which I have encountered while trying to complete my GURs. However, there are a lot of courses where you really need to learn the material to do well -- and those are surprisingly some of the classes I have enjoyed the most! Most professors WANT to help you to learn the material, and that's what makes it so great!

Good grades, good standardized test scores, etc. etc. will all be helpful. Write a sincere and convincing essay.

Bang for the buck

Pretty pricy, especially for out of state students. Beware of the current budget crises. The new print quota means you can only print 25 pages a quarter. Be prepared to shell out some money for those long, long papers.

Sarah from Everett, WA

11/07/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Western Washington University is for students that don't mind some rain, and enjoy being surrounded by different and new opportunities. They have the ability to do whatever they want. There are many outdoor activities offered for those that want to get off campus and explore the Bellingham bay or go hiking. This is a happy campus despite the rain.

Tips for prospective students

Those who plan to attend Western Washington University should listen to the advisors at summer orientation because they are very useful. Try something new! And bring a raincoat and some rain boots.

Bang for the buck

At Western great classes are offered and plenty is learned and shared. Also, the campus is surrounded by the most beautiful city and many new things to do each day. For instance, there is a make-your-own-pottery shop and hiking trails for the more outdoor types. This is a bid biking community. Transportation is always readily available too. The campus itself offers good food like Subway and Starbucks, and has a Recreation Center that is guaranteed to make students feel good about themselves.

Am enjoying being here

The people at WWU are friendly and accepting. There is a club for everything and everyone. Even with all the rain everybody has a smile on their face. Dorms have so many activities to enjoy throughout each week like henna tattoos, floor wars, and dances.

Am learning a lot

During my first quarter at Western Washington University all my teachers were focused on making sure that the students understood the subject, and to help anyone that fell behind. There are so many opportunities too. There are classes available for subjects I didn't even existed. Personally, I have feel I have improved in English. Also, I took a Greek Mythology class, and now my head is full of stories that give reason and purpose behind many things we don't consider, like the origins of spiders. It is amazing what you learn in your classes and the clubs.

Heather from Bellingham, WA

04/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

They have many campus safety patrols (who aren't too nosy), there is a student shuttle that runs only for Western Students late at night every day of the week, and most of the campus is brightly lit with call-boxes every couple of hundred feet or so.

Greek Life

Western is known for the student body which overwhelmingly votes against having any sort of Greek Life every year.

Clubs and Activities

Many clubs are available, and they hire each year, providing a salaried on campus job to current students.

Western is considered one of the best colleges for the money on the list of 100 best colleges for the money. In addition, it's the cheapest public university in the state and it has a better reputation than some of the other schools.

What to do for fun

Bellingham is an excellent college town for those who like the outdoors and for the hippie style of living.

Food and Dining

The food starts off fantastic and gets progressively more boring through the quarter. Luckily there are thousands of restaurants and grocery stores in the area, so you won't be stuck eating Top Ramen and Pizza every night.

Dorm Life

Dorm Life can be loud, especially on the Ridge or in Fairhaven. The dorms vary differently and it is common for most freshman to live in Fairhaven. One thing is for sure: Western is party-friendly, a fact which even the Resident Director notes.

Academic Rigor

The Academic Rigor depends on the classes you take and the professors with which you take them. A chemistry class can become far more difficult with a teacher who doesn't cater to your teaching style.

Tips for prospective students

Bring a rain coat!

In three sentences

Western Washington University is centered in Bellingham, Washington and is an excellent choice for the environmentally conscious. The students are very into organic living and make sure to work out and eat healthily. Bicycles and farmers markets are considered fashionable.

Alyssa from Mount Vernon, WA

09/09/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

If you have the option, take the Honors program. There is very little work to do (besides the classes) and the classes satisfy GURs. However, don't believe them when they say the Honors program does all sorts of get-togethers and help sessions and stuff...they don't.

Bang for the buck

With the tuition increase, things are getting a little more expensive, but so are all the other schools. Western is pretty cheap compared to other colleges, and they have really good faculty, campus and research opportunities.

Am enjoying being here

Western is amazingly fun; there is always something going on for all types of people. Human vs. Zombies, clubs all over the board (go to the Info Fair at the start of the year; almost all the clubs set up info booths), excursions through the Outdoor Center... the list goes on. The type of people that come to WWU are all really nice, too. It's actually a little scary how nice everyone is; there are almost no clicks and everyone is really welcoming and inclusive. Plus, you can't beat Bellingham as a town; it has everything!

Am learning a lot

Most of the teachers are great; they are helpful, fun, and love to teach their subject. However, there are a few teachers that are only teaching because they can do research, so you want to ask around. Some teachers are harder than others and have different teaching styles, but the majority are awesome to take a class with; it does depend on your department, so, if you can, find someone in your intended major and talk with them about it. Definitely use ratemyprofessor.com, as it's helpful to know what type of teacher you're signing up for.

Sarah from Ferndale, WA

12/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you're into environmental studies or care, Western is definitely the place for you! Environmental protection is a huge part of Western's atmosphere and the campus is gorgeous! If you're the outdoorsy type you will also love Western, there are trails all over Bellingham and all sorts of opportunities to get active and get outside!

Tips for prospective students

Go to class, you may not feel like it, but it's really the best way to do well. Also, talk to your professors! Building relationships with your professors can also make your college experience more enjoyable and can provide you with valuable references later in your academic career.

Bang for the buck

Paying tuition is probably the worst part of ones college experience, but as far as state universities go, it's not all that bad. My current tuition is just over 14,000 a year. If you can get scholarships, it makes it much more bearable and loans also help. I would say that going to Western is definitely worth it, just be smart about how much you can afford.

Am enjoying being here

Get involved! College will be much more interesting if you are actively searching out ways to make friends and make a difference! I was a commuter student my first year so it made it difficult at times to make friendships due to my limited schedule. But I recently moved closer to campus and it helped me to get better connected and I am enjoying this year so much more! You will get as much out of your college experience as you put in so make the effort and you will not regret it!

Am learning a lot

While it can often depend on the Professor, I am learning a lot at this campus. Overall, the professors are very informative and provide interesting insight into their fields. I have been stretched in my understanding and challenged beyond what I had previously envisioned. I have been able to look at new perspectives and push myself; I have learned about different worldviews and look at the world in a different way.

Kaylee from Bellingham, WA

02/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

they have emergency phones on most light posts in case you get caught at the wrong place at the wrong time, they have student shuttle for lat night transportation rather than walking alone in dark, or alone in general. campus security around the clock, always available for help even when car battery is dead.

Greek Life

no frat or sorority houses on campus

Great for these types of students

outdoor loving, love to read

Bang for the buck

classes are great, but some teachers are not and i do not like my tuition paying them to talk down to me or not care about my understanding of the material, so they take no time to help and then i have to reach to outside sources.

feels like you can never get away and sometimes a student just needs to have a break from school.

Academic Rigor

some teachers are too challenging to the point where it causes unneeded amounts of stress and can make school seem extremely difficult. use rate my professor when registering for classes

Tips for prospective students

bring your a-game. western is nothing compared to high school, the first year will be your hardest.

In three sentences

very beautiful and large campus. the classes may not seem challenging but teachers sure do love to challenge you to your most highest potential, use the student tutoring center for help resources. western gives some students a large work load, but you could say you're getting your money's worth and you may be one of the top in your major after you graduate!

David from Camas, WA

The food at Western is good. In the dining hall the food options rotate every day, so naturally some days are better than others. I'd give the dining hall food a satisfactory rating.

Dorm Life

Dorm life has it's pros and cons. Yes, you get to life in a community with many other people. On the other hand, you HAVE to live in a community with other people. Developing the skills you need to work and live with others is fostered through the hardships of dorm life.

Academic Rigor

Some courses can be pretty challenging. The key is always going to class and completing the homework to stay on top of a subject. The hardest part is taking a university required class that you don't want to take.

Tips for prospective students

Focus on your entrance essay more than obsessing over SAT or ACT scores. Western cares more about who you are and how well you would do at this school than your test scores.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a very diverse and open campus. The campus is beautiful, although the weather can be poor at times (hello Pacific Northwest. The professors here are top notch and care about their studies.

Erin from Olympia, WA

04/05/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

Keep on top of requirements

Bang for the buck

Despite all of the cuts and tuition being raised, I feel like the prices are fairly reasonable. Living off campus makes my living expenses a lot less and gives me more freedom that I would have in dorms.

Am enjoying being here

I love the campus. The atmosphere is great; very friendly and open. I really enjoy the amount of dedication to the environment and sustainability. Also, the transit system is excellent.

Am learning a lot

The classes are great and I enjoy the different options available to me. I really enjoy the teachers I've had and look forward to more classes in the future.

Dana from Carnation, WA

06/16/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

WWU has a huge focus on environmentally friendly projects and the great outdoors, so those with a high interest in such areas will love it here. For those who are less eco-focused, such as myself, if you at least have an appreciation for nature or the arts, there's plenty to be had on campus.

Tips for prospective students

Plan what classes to take during the year ahead of time when at all possible. This makes it a lot easier to see what needs to be done for your major/minor. Take a reasonable course load, not just the easy, low credit classes. A mix of difficult and easy will make the quarter easier on you and allow greater progress. This is college, expect to work hard but don't kill yourself over studies and stress. A big key part of succeeding in college is taking care of your overall health. This may sound like your mother, but she has a good point. If you do not take care of your body, you cannot perform well, and trust me, having mono during finals week is hellish. You take the extra time to give your body what it needs and you won't have two weeks of your quarter destroyed due to whatever illness is cycling through campus.

Bang for the buck

There are excellent teachers on campus, ones who can make a business law class seem like the most exciting thing in the world or break a complex equation down into understandable parts you can remember during tests. Taking as many credits as you can handle, from 12-18, is always good as this range has the same price. If the prospect of 18 credits is daunting, try A) taking classes in subject you know you are good at, B) Intro classes that are required for various GURs or C) taking a PE class or two to help you manage stress levels. Living off campus is highly recommended, and much more affordable, particularly Birnam Wood Apartments.There are convenient bus systems all through Bellingham that make it easy to survive without a car, also good if you live off campus. Keep in mind that if you do want to live on campus for the social aspect, you are required to get a meal plan, which depending on what you get can be more expensive then the dorm itself. If you're the outdoors type, there are many inexpensive activities you can enjoy through the Outdoor Center to keep you active and healthy. Getting used books or using the textbooks in the library can also help lower costs considerably. I've survived two quarters by borrowing half my books from friends and then helping them sell the books after I was finished. You can find good deals for books in the WWU forum, where students post books they are trying to get rid of as well as the books they are looking for.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely love walking around campus. Red Square is a hub of activity on sunny days and the first few weeks of each quarter. Often populated with booths offering information about services and clubs or free food (love the coffee booth at 10 am). Students gather and laze in the sun with friends or show off new tricks. In the late afternoon, Red Square is popular for the skateboarders on campus to cruise around without worrying about running into crowds. The campus itself is beautiful, with lots of open grass areas, wooded regions, and a wonderful view of the bay from the PAC square (another great sunbathing place). Along with it's beauty, the walk from one side of campus to the other is about 10 minutes, convenient when you have classes in different buildings. The general atmosphere of WWU is very laid back and open, allowing students the opportunity to explore new ideas academically and socially in a

Am learning a lot

You learn only so much as you will allow yourself to explore new subjects and grow, and WWU is great for that. There are excellent teachers, multiple tutor centers, and a number of useful resource offices found in the Viking Union and Old Main. For when I need to blow off steam, the Rec Center is fully equipped, and also offers various classes and sports teams one can get involved in. Sometimes tutors or exercise are more distracting then productive, so I find that a quiet place in the library (there are many, be careful to not get lost) or taking over a classroom with a study group in the evening can really help get some serious studying done, as well as have questions answered via my peers. Western allows me to both learn a great deal through classes and also how to learn outside class, a key survival skill both in college and in the real world. With all the resources at hand, WWU is very conductive to creating one's own effective study habits. Put in the effort, find your passion, and you will learn much more then you thought you could at this school.

Be prepared to make friends and have a great time regardless of the weather.

Bang for the buck

Worth my money. Very little to complain about. No place is perfect. It rains a lot (which I am ok with but most other students seem not to be) and sometimes scheduling can be difficult. But all of the issues are minor and have always been solvable to me.

Am enjoying being here

The people ad faculty are extremely nice. I live in the dorms for one-year (Nash) and have to say that it was a great experience. I mean dorms are dorms but given that fact it was a very god experience. The teachers are helpful, the classes pretty informative, and the availability of extra things you want to do such as sports, getting involved in the school's political scene (not for me), DJ'ing your own radio station through the school, Open Mic Nights where you can go perform. You name it and you can find a way to get involved in it at Western.

Am learning a lot

The teachers at this University do not just treat you like a paycheck. More often than not they will know you by name, and if you seem to be trying and take advantage of their office hours, it will not go unnoticed. They will do everything in their power to help you pass your class including meeting with you outside of class if you simply e-mail them and schedule a time to meet.

Australia from Benton City, WA

06/27/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

Get your paperwork done on time so you can enjoy the college experience more. Be open to communicate to your resources on campus such as financial aid and other services such as advisers on campus. Also there is almost always a club or group or service on campus that makes your transition from high school graduate to college student easier.

Am enjoying being here

You will not be overwhelmed by its size, a school not too big or small, perfect size. Faculty are availability for you and are very good at meeting you where your at. They are a lot of support groups and activities to do here at Western especially more outdoor activities but as well as places to go dancing, shopping, and overall site seeing. Support groups range from activity center groups, ethnic student groups, resource outreach groups such as veteran's center, LBGTA, among the many resources here on campus. Bellingham, where the university is located, is just beautiful, its very green city!

Am learning a lot

Amazing liberal arts school! Ranked in the nation for a reason. Pedagogy of educators is very different and they come from diverse disciplines. They will continue to question everything you have to say and ask you to always cite evidence for your claims and views. You learn to debunk some of your beliefs and stereotypes about social/global issues and be aware of issues that you probably haven't come across before. At Western Washington University (WWU) you are required to be a critical thinker. Students must seek the education they want here. If you take easy courses, you won't learn a lot. Take a myriad of courses (from easy to moderate to hard) from various disciplines to get the true beauty of a liberal arts college.

Alyssa from Marysville, WA

People who are into the outdoors, people who don't mind windy weather, people who enjoy adventures.

Tips for prospective students

If you're not sure where you want to goto school, get tours at all the places you're considering going to college. Get involved early with clubs, and dorm activities. The people you will meet here will be lifelong friends, and you won't regret going to school at Western.

Bang for the buck

My classes are smaller than they are at other local universities. I'm taught by professors instead of graduate students. My professors incorporate their unique experiences into their lectures and further fuel my interest for the career I am pursuing.

Am enjoying being here

There are so many opportunities to get involved in the Western community, and in the larger Bellingham community. There's something for everyone here.

Am learning a lot

My classes are very interesting, and challenging. But I am learning so many valuable things that I don't think I would have learned anywhere else, and I know I will use the things I have learned throughout my life.

Alexandra from Blaine, WA

07/22/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Laid-back, creative types Students passionate about environmental rights Students passionate about humanitarian rights Students who want to design their own major Students who just want to get in and get out and not be part of a college atmosphere.

Tips for prospective students

The standard uniform of rainboots, jeans, a colorful The North Face jacket and a black The North Face backpack will allow you to blend in if you don't want to stick out. If you do, the options are endless. I think my favourite outfit of the year was a green dinosaur costume. Go to the Info Fair before school starts, I met a few year-long friends that way. Also, if you're moving into the dorms, sign up for the Help! program, it's another great networking tool. And don't pack a television - there's an enormous one in every lounge, and your room is small enough already!

Bang for the buck

Tuition costs are rising, and it's hard to pay for school, especially if you're living on-campus. Comparatively, however, it's cheaper than a lot of other schools, and you're getting a good and thorough education. The amenities are great as well, with a fantastic pool and enormous work-out center, awesome technology resources, and hundreds of free clubs. If you want to have a full schedule, sign up for a few clubs, get involved in a volunteer group, and dive into college life at WWU!

Am enjoying being here

I grew up by WWU, so it is not as exciting for me as it might be for a student from out of town, but I spent my first year in Nash Hall and liked it a lot. The atmosphere is fantastic, especially when you walk through Red Square. The fountain, the constant protest signs, guitar-playing hippies, and booths for different events allow you to be swept away in the enthusiasm of young people, inspired to change the world.

Am learning a lot

General Undergraduate Requirements (GURs) are huge lecture classes filled with people who do not want to be there, so they are more like high school than one would have suspected. Upper-level courses, however, are very enjoyable, and great discussions can ensue when you're surrounded by people who are enthusiastic about the subject matter. I was in an Introductory Environmental Science course where my professor stood onstage at the front of the room and serenaded us with his banjo about why pollution and phosphates are bad for the environment. The professors are great and work very hard to keep the students engaged, whether or not they want to be.

Anonymous

07/30/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

I think that this school is definitely the place for people who love the outdoors like me. There is a rock climbing wall there and the arboretum. The bay is just down the road. Everything is withing bussing or walking distance, and they have a WONDERFUL environmental sciences program. All of the programs there are pretty superb, but all of the geology majors and environmental studies programs are great. Not to mention the teaching program. Woodring is a very good program, and several of my favorite high school teachers actually went through the program. I am excited to be applying there.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely start off talking with the professors at the beginning of the quarters. You are always told that in books and things, but I never listened to them until about mid-way through winter quarter. This made me realize that they are actually there to help you and want you to succeed in their classes! Especially when you are struggling, they always make time for you to come in and talk to them about what you are having problems with and help you through it, and they make it easy! If you cannot go during their office hours they will make you a special appointment. This is the number one tip I can give, and also do not put off studying for the tests. Go in before your first test to the tutoring center and go talk to the study skills people to help you get the best results on your tests for yourself.

Bang for the buck

I think you get a quality education from very quality professors for the price you are paying. Costs are going up everywhere for schools, and Western is not in any way more or less expensive than other schools in Washington.

Am enjoying being here

Besides the rain every day I LOVE THIS SCHOOL! Campus is beautiful. If you like the outdoors you will love it here as well. It is right next to an arboretum and it has so many out doors activities to do. The only thing that I wish I could change which would make it much more enjoyable would be for the art program. I do not know how to make a portfolio and the only way to be accepted into the art program is through applying and getting accepted or declined. This is next on my list of things to do at the university, go through and figure out how to apply and make a portfolio.

Am learning a lot

I would say I am learning a lot. The only things that I have problems with is matching up the right types of classes to take together. The problems I have encountered is with the math department. I am not good at math at all, and there are ways of getting help I just have not yet discovered the way to seek the help yet. The first year is a lot of stuff to get used to, and I have definitely gotten used to the registration process, the essay process and anything that does not involve math.

Karibou from Canada

01/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

All :-)

Tips for prospective students

Education is the key to life. Success in school will be rewarded, and IS rewarding by itself. Don't ever feel discouraged if you receive a low grade--try your best, and ASK THE TEACHER FOR HELP. Most often they are delighted to know you want to work at it, and much happier to help you rather than have to fail you later. And always check out your school's tutoring center, great resource.

Bang for the buck

I'm currently paying triple tuition (as a Canadian in a US school), and would say that WWU is worth the money. The quality of education has been very good so far, and as it is a smaller school (15,000 students vs. my home university--UBC--with 52,000 students), the teachers can spend more time helping you.

Am enjoying being here

I love the campus--absolutely beautiful. Red brick everywhere...and then the ocean on one side, and a forest on the other. Wow! And all the people are very friendly.

Am learning a lot

Tons! The teachers are all very caring and knowledgeable about their subjects. I took English 101 last term and had the best teacher ever.

Jessica from Bellingham, WA

03/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is important to Western. There are little call boxes spread throughout campus that go straight to the police if someone felt they were in trouble. Western has Green Coats that can be called to escort students at all hours of the night across campus. Most people report feeling very safe on campus.

Greek Life

Western does not have a Greek system.

Clubs and Activities

There are all kinds of music, singing, dance, and other interest clubs. We even have a Quidditch team for those that love Harry Potter. There is a Disney club, an Anime club, a large and involved LGBTQ community, and many large Christian clubs. Our clubs for every ethnicity are are thriving and important part of Western, as well.

Great for these types of students

Students who care about the environment. Students with open minds who want to learn more about themselves and others. Engineering students. Students wanting to go into education. Students wanting to major or research psychology.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Underground Coffee House hosts Open Mic Nights, Trivia nights where teams can win money, and concerts. It is also a place where many people go to study or unwind. The watch tower is at the top of what is called, the Arboretum. The Arboretum is a short and beautiful hike with many trails to choose from. Once at the top of the watch tower, all of Bellingham can be seen. Western has the biggest sculpture collection of any university in America. The best part of the sculptures is that they are required to be interactive. Students can often be seen lounging on sculptures or climbing them. Humans vs. Zombies is huge at Western. A large amount of people on campus participate in Humans vs. Zombies at least twice a year. It is exciting even for those not playing.

Bang for the buck

Western is an state school with amazing opportunities for growth and learning in a wide array of areas, but is competitive and rigorous as well. Western is a great investment.

What to do for fun

Western host many dances, concerts, and movies on campus. In a popular coffee house there is Open Mic Night where students get to show off their stand up routines and music. The night scene is great even for those under 21. Many restaurants stay open late into the night and deliver. Hiking, sail boating, trail running, dancing, theater, and clubs all make Western an exciting place to live and get to know people with similar interests. Mount Baker is close by as well for those who love to ski and snowboard.

Food and Dining

Dining on campus has flexible hours and has great options for those who are vegetarian, vegan, and gluten intolerant. Late Night is a meal for those who are unable to make it for dinner. A popular Late Night is Warm Cookie Night, where not only are there delicious warm cookies but also an open salad bar and other healthier options available.

Dorm Life

Western's residence hall experience is incredible and unique. Resident Advisers (RAs) are trained rigorously to ensure that residents get the most out of their experience living on campus. There are excellent opportunities for making friends. Strong communities are built inside of the residence halls. RAs meet with every resident individually to discuss issues that are not often talked about enough like one's goals, community, differences between oneself and others, and how the resident is doing in all areas of their life. There are many ways to get involved in setting the tone of the resident hall community. There is Hall Council, Eco-reps who create activities to benefit the earth, event planning, and other opportunities to work inside the residence halls.

Academic Rigor

Western is a great place to start as a freshman or sophomore because the teachers of 100 and 200 level classes understand that not everyone in their class is necessarily in the major that that class represents. The make classes challenging enough to prepare those who want to continue into related courses and broad enough for those who are just taking the class out of interest. As you get into higher level classes, professors do not mess around. You will feel prepared and will have gained many of the skills that are needed for your major. This is hard work, but that is what college should be about. You earn your degree.

Tips for prospective students

Explore the many clubs and activities on campus. They are mostly free and are aimed at having fun or opening up your mind to new ways of thinking or both! Bring rain boots and coats with hoods. No one uses umbrellas here. This is a liberal arts university so try out classes that have nothing to do with your intended major. Take advantage of the opportunity for a well-rounded education. Get your applications in early. Don't wait until college to get more involved. Running for office in high school or being involved in the executive board of a club can set you up for greater opportunities to be in leadership positions in college. There are many opportunities for student involvement at Western. Don't worry if you do not have an intended major. Universities like Western let you sample many different areas that may interest you before you choose.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a truly wonderful place to go to college because the professors are here to teach and invest in their students, their is a place for everyone and every view, and Western cares about constantly evolving into an even better university by the input of students.

Maya from Missoula, MT

03/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

On campus there are always tons of music events, dances, and other activities to choose from. Off campus there are often events downtown, or a bunch of places you can go to hike, camp, kayak, bike or any other outdoor activity you can think of.

Food and Dining

There are a wide range of dining locations on campus, from the dining hall to retail dining spots where you can buy food made by local restaurants and vendors.

Dorm Life

The dorms are a wonderful place to meet new people, have a ton of fun and make lasting friendships.

Academic Rigor

The level of academic challenge of course depends on the classes you choose to take, but overall classes are engaging and thought provoking.

Tips for prospective students

Do research to discover what parts of Western are best suited for what you want to do. Pay attention not only to the academic programs that interest you but also to the other resources that can be found on and around campus, such as the rec center or the fun things to do in Bellingham.

In three sentences

Western Washington has a beautiful campus with a many diverse students and unique opportunities. The school focuses on preparing its students for entrance into the 'real world' by giving them a well-rounded, liberal arts education rather than one that is narrowly focused. Western is an accepting and exciting place to be no matter what you're studying.

Juan from Lake Stevens, WA

03/27/2012

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

The university itself has a large and very well-done bulidings. All the facilities are great and amazing. The area where the school is located has beautiful scenery and a fantastic running trail that is perfect for trainning.

Brandon from Seattle, WA

Campus patrols and night-time escorts are available for your safety, though incidents of mugging do occur from time to time in the off campus regions of Bellingham.

Greek Life

Non-existent!

Clubs and Activities

Several hundred clubs and groups ensure you can find a niche and make friends without any trouble.

Great for these types of students

Open minded, socially-liberal, outdoor-oriented, adventurous, and all the rest!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are several unique statues, and interactive art pieces that students will find interesting. Also, the nearby arboretum provides beautiful escape and relaxation opportunities.

Bang for the buck

Great school for a great value when tuition is compared with other top ranked schools in Washington (UW, WSU, etc).

What to do for fun

I play video games, perform magic, and go out with friends on excursions (there are lots of nearby outdoors attractions like hikes, kayaking, etc.). Ultimately, you'll find the activities you like to do for fun the most!

Food and Dining

Dining hall food isn't the best, but option dining options like the on-campus markets give you some tasty variety!

Dorm Life

Great atmosphere with diverse living environments depending where you stay on campus.

Academic Rigor

Most classes are just the write amount of rigor; though I've spent most of my time in humanities, journalism, and a couple science/math classes.

Tips for prospective students

Do your readings and you'll be fine. Most classes I've taken are purely test-based which sounds daunting but, if you develop good study habits, can actually be a great GPA booster. Also, always talk to your professors if you need help, you'll be pleasantly surprised by their openess and how down to earth they are!

In three sentences

Western is a great school highlighted by a beautiful campus (when weather permits!). I have been repeatedly impressed by the quality of professors and find them to be, in general, knowledgeable and easily approachable. My only negative would be that you don't have that big school feeling with the absence of such things as a greek system or a football team.

Hannah from Puyallup, WA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There are these phones all over campus and I think the security guys are called the Green Coats.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs and I have heard it isn't to hard to start one up.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Red Square has a beautiful fountain. Also the functional art on campus is fun.

Bang for the buck

Great School.

What to do for fun

I am sure there are a lot of things. I am more familiar with the food. Some great places are Pita pit and Casa Que Pasa. Or for ice cream, check out Mallards.

Food and Dining

I am getting unlimited dining.

Dorm Life

I am looking at Nash or Mathes. I love them both!

Academic Rigor

I have heard great things!

Tips for prospective students

Well, since I am a prospective student myself, I can't really give any tips, but I was told that printing is expensive, so bring your own printer. Also, go onto MyRoomate. I know its a little weird and E-Harmony like, but its a great way to meet people and even find yourself a roomie!

Jennifer from Fort Collins, CO

I feel generally safe in the area as long as you aren't walking around by yourself in the early morning hours.

Greek Life

No frats or sororities!

Great for these types of students

Openminded,liberals,friendly, hipsters

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Look out for all the decorated bricks sprinkled along the campus walkways.

What to do for fun

Check out all the free stuff offered on campus and around town. Go hiking in the arboretum and enjoy the views!

Food and Dining

The food is pretty decent and they try hard to listen to your input. Being like any cafeteria though, most people get sick of it after a couple of months. However, it has a pretty wide selection and variety.

Dorm Life

There are three very distinct areas of campus, all with different styles of living so no matter who you are you can find one that fits your lifestyle. Each dorm has a pretty active community and there is always something going on you can join.

Academic Rigor

Due to the quarter system. each class lasts ten weeks so they move at a pretty quick pace. The teachers expect quality and you have to work hard. The library and tutoring center are great resources.

Tips for prospective students

Put yourself out there to meet new people. There are so many clubs on campus, try a lot. Also, take advantage of all the free shows,plays,art displays,musical talent that will be offered weekly.

In three sentences

This University has a very friendly atmosphere. It's a pretty chill school set in a beautiful area with a great town. The classes are great and help you discover your potential.

Kathleen from Issaquah, WA

04/11/2012

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

The entire time I have been at Western, there have been 2 armed robberies, 5 assaults, two suicides, and one unsolved death of a student. There hasn't been one academic quarter where I haven't heard of the unfortunate happenings to Western students. Don't walk home alone at night!

Greek Life

There is no Greek system at WWU. Every year, the Associated Students vote on it, and nobody wants it.

Clubs and Activities

All clubs are student-run, so it's really give or take. Western has a fairly okay sports program, but they do not have football. (If you are enrolled in an athletic program, you get to register for classes before everyone else, even Seniors). Western has an excellent rec center where students can work out, swim, and take classes. The rec center is supported by a mandatory fee tagged onto your tuition, so you may as well use it.

Great for these types of students

Good alternative for people who didn't get into University of Washington. Great school for transfer students with lower GPAs. Western will admit anyone with an Associate's degree and higher than 2.5 GPA. Great for people who haven't taken the SAT/ACT; Western doesn't require it if you have higher than 3.0 in high school, or have completed college courses at a community college. Great for these kind of people: vegans, vegetarians, hippies, hipsters, music students, theater students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Western Wednesday, where the students wear Western attire, then partake in loud drinking and partying on Wednesday nights.

Bang for the buck

If you want to pay over $3000 per quarter for classes with professors that don't really care, then go for it. At Western, I found that the vast majority of professors lacked social skills, and were quite frankly poor instructors. I think they are only there because they have PhD's, and it's about the only job they can find in this job market. I had one professor hand back an assignment that I turned in the first week of school 8 weeks later... Yeah.

What to do for fun

Many of the students play Humans vs. Zombies. The night life is also very laid back, for those over 21. You can go to a bar and not expect to be harassed. It's fairly safe-feeling. And for those under 21, Canada is only 13 miles north (the drinking age is 19 up there).

Food and Dining

The food is very good. No junk food. There are a lot of specialty cafes around campus, and Western is very 'organic' with it's food choices. However, be prepared to pay $7.50 for a PB&J sandwich and a soda. It is very overpriced.

Dorm Life

The dorms are very overcrowded. There are often three people per two-person suite, or five people per four-person suite. They just finished construction on a new dorm, so it could be different.

Academic Rigor

I have had very few challenging courses at this school. If you show up, and do all of the assignments, you should get a 3.0.

Tips for prospective students

If you are unsure about what you want to major in, do not go here. It is a very small school, and thus, very few options for majors. If you are passionate about something, and want to do it, then go to Western if they happen to offer it. Also, if you are a transfer student with an Associate's degree, make sure you have known what you wanted to study while at community college. Western claims that the first two years are general education, then the second two years are major-focused, however, all majors require 100 and 200 level courses. You will spend your first year taking lower division courses, then end up with a five-year Bachelor's if you are lucky.

Hannah from Naches, WA

04/23/2012

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

As a young woman, I always felt safe on campus and in Bellingham. As with any town, you want to know the best ways to keep yourself out of trouble. One great feature of WWU is their security team who drive around checking on the campus at all times of the day. There are also various phone booths that allow you to directly call campus security from locations all over campus.

Greek Life

There is no Greek life at WWU.

Clubs and Activities

There are numerous clubs and activities on campus. I really enjoyed the French and Spanish conversation groups, but whatever your interests, you can find something to suit yourself!

Great for these types of students

Western draws a lot of laid back people. The atmosphere is very relaxed and casual.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

WWU is filled with sculptures. You will definitely enjoy strolling around campus to see all the various art.

What to do for fun

Bellingham is great for outdoor fun in the spring and summer. The Oyster Dome is one of the favorite hikes. You can also enjoy a 3 mile run around Lake Padden or lounge in one of the many parks. Indoor activities include a gym and rock climbing wall at WWU, a couple bowling alleys in town, great music venues and movie theatres. One, in particular, is the Pickford Theatre-a small, locally owned and run venue.

Food and Dining

Bellingham has some wonderful restaurants. Some of my favorites are On Rice Thai Cuisine and Casa Que Pasa. Other student favorites include Bob's Burgers and Coconut Kenny's (a pizza place). There are all kinds of foods to be found, from Vietnamese pho to Korean bulgolgi!

Dorm Life

I lived on The Ridge, as a freshman at WWU. Dorm life is great to help you meet friends. You don't have to worry about making food either as there are plenty of cafeterias.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor, of course, depends on the courses you choose to take. The things that will help you, regardless of the difficulty of a class are doing the reading, meeting with friends or groups to study and taking advantage of the office hours of your professors. They are there to help you.

Tips for prospective students

Explore Bellingham, it is a great city for students and anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Take advantage of the farmer's market when the weather is good. On campus, be sure to use the library, the underground coffeehouse and the green lawns (in the spring) to study-you will meet friendly people and have a great environment for learning!

In three sentences

WWU has a friendly and welcoming campus. The University is filled with professors and staff who are willing to help, if you just ask. The students are interested in both studying an having a good time.

Jessica from Marysville, WA

04/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The green coats are available on campus! Call them and they will keep you company as you walk any where on campus. Campus police is also real quick to respond if there was a problem. For the most part, the campus is a very safe environment

Clubs and Activities

Get involved! There are over 250 clubs at western. Anything you can think of there is probably a club for - appreciating Beyonce club, Zombies vs Humans, Campus fellowships, sport clubs etc.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Make sure to attend the campus info fair in the beginning of the year! Lots of free give a ways and it gives you a taste of all the clubs and sports at Western!

What to do for fun

Bellingham has so many things to do! It is in a very outdoorsy city. There is the water to the west and a great mountain for skiing and snowboarding to the East. Great hiking is present in the area as well. Downtown Bellingham provides lots of fun bars and dancing at some small clubs. There are also great shops and local businesses that are a must see! Campus also provides opportunities for fun - concerts, plays, sports, etc.

Food and Dining

The campus just changed to a new company for food. The system is very well done and yummy. It's buffet style with options for all appetites - vegetarian meals, basics like hamburgers and chicken burgers, an eclectic meal, pasta, pizza, salad bar, etc. It's also as many servings as you like.

Dorm Life

Western provides a dorm for everyone! There are different types. Some with community bathrooms, some suite style, some apartment style. In addition, alcohol and non-alcohol free dorms. As well as some quiet dorms for those who want to get lots of studying done! I really love that there isn't a Greek system at western. It brings a community feel to the campus and that no one is greater than the other.

Academic Rigor

As any university is expected to be the academic rigor is higher than high school or community college courses. Most of my GUR's were a reasonable amount of out of class work. The work-load increases as you get deeper into your major.

Tips for prospective students

When looking at colleges it is important to find a place that fits you. Make sure the campus is a place you enjoy as you will spend most of your first year living on campus or around it. Western's campus is beautiful and green! In addition, make sure to get involved in campus sports, inter murals, clubs, etc. This is a great way to meet people and develop relationships!

In three sentences

Western Washington University is an amazing school with lots to do on and off campus! It has a very environment friendly campus and professors that are always willing to help. Lastly, it is a community that is extremely welcoming, outdoorsy and a great place to call a home away from home.

Amy from North Logan, UT

Bellingham is generally a very safe town, but like all college towns, there are some robberies and assaults. Just try to stick to the lit areas if you are walking alone at night.

Greek Life

There is no Greek life at WWU

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs here at Western, but how to join is really confusing. It will take a lot of initiative on your part to join a club.

Great for these types of students

WWU is great for non-conservative, open-minded, outdoorsy, and friendly people seeking a liberal education.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The arboretum behind campus is a place where all new students spend a lot of their time. You'll understand if you attend Western.

Bang for the buck

I am an out-of-state student, so tuition would have been considerably more to attend WWU. Luckily, I got an excellent scholarship that cut my tuition in half. WWU is not stingy with their scholarships, which is rare! Even if you don't get a scholarship, WWU is still a lot less expensive than other similar schools. In addition, WWU has high job placement among graduates, and a high standing in many college ratings.

What to do for fun

There are plenty of things to do for fun at Western and around Bellingham! At Western, you can watch a sport team (we are the best at basketball and rowing), play intramural or club sports, attend the beautiful all-glass recreation center that costs no extra fee, go to open mike night at the Underground Cafe, watch plays and stand-up comedy, and sometimes we even get big-name bands! Bellingham is excellent if you are a outdoor enthusiast. There are numerous trails, biking paths, lakes, bays, rivers, and skiing mountains. If you prefer the indoor activities, the mall here is HUGE. Canadians literally cross the border just to shop at our mall! Speaking of Canada, Vancouver BC is only an hour away, so if you want to enjoy some night life and city living, it is a great place to go-and the drinking age is only 19.

Food and Dining

The reason for the low-ish rating is because I really like to cook my own food, rather than have somebody doing something mysterious in the kitchen and presenting me with a dinner whose true ingredients are unknown. I found that guys tend to enjoy the dining hall food more than gals. Western does try to give you choices (organic, gluten-free, vegetarian, nutrition labels), but sometimes it seemed the dining hall was lacking in variety. The on-campus cafes and markets were better, but often over priced for college students. If you are addicted to coffee, WWU is a great place because there is a Starbucks or other coffee shop on every corner!

Dorm Life

I had a grand time in the dorms. If you attend WWU with a friend, you can request to live with them in the dorms, otherwise it's pretty much a crap-shoot. In other words, you either get really lucky or really unlucky. I got really lucky and ended up living with a girl that basically became my sister. If you do get stuck with a roommate you really can't stand, the dorms are clustered in a way that makes it easy to meet others on your hall or in your building.

Academic Rigor

Like most institutions, it depends on the classes you take and the professors you choose. I am in the honors program here, so if you are looking for more personalized instruction that is a great option. Some majors are also harder than others. I am an economics major, and a lot of the upper division classes are brutal. I assume it's similar for some other majors. If you want a more relaxed college experience, you could just take less credits each quarter.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan to come to Western, make sure you are not looking for a school with the type of college parties that you see on television. There are parties here of course, but they are mainly house parties, not Greek (there is no Greek system), or sports oriented (no football team). This isn't a bad thing; I enjoy the chill atmosphere. People accept you for who you are and there seems to be less drama around popularity. Also, if you plan on attending WWU, make sure you want a degree that is offered! WWU is a liberal arts school, not a land grant, so there are no degrees in agriculture, food science, etc. Additionally, you must like the rain if you want to live in Bellingham!

In three sentences

Western is excellent for students seeking a small liberal arts school. The town, Bellingham, is also very liberal and great for relaxed, granola-crunching people. The professors are great, classes are small, and the people friendly!

Riley from Kingston, WA

Western is a certified sculpture park. Find an attractive male or female and go check it out.

What to do for fun

The pacific northwest is an extremely beautiful place with many outdoor activities waiting to be exploited. However, the weather doesn't accomodate for the outdoors so nicely. During the winter months its best to join a club, make new friends, and, if you're desperate, go shopping. But as soon as the sun comes out, go kayaking, biking, swimming, or anything your heart desires.

Food and Dining

On campus food is not what it's advertised to be. No joke, living off dining hall food is a struggle. Of course you can't expect much with the amountof students they have to feed, but don't count on getting a satisfactory meal every night, if you can, cook in your dorm or go out to eat a few times a week.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is necessary for your first year. I say that because it gives you the opportunity to meet people and create friendships that you would never get if you weren't in that close proximity to other students. The quality of the dorm rooms are not bad at all and the Resident Advisers are almost always very polite, friendly, and helpful. Overall, one year in the dorms is great, after that, go live o your own with the new friends you made.

Academic Rigor

Throughout my schooling career so far at Western, I feel that i have yet to be completely academically challenged. By that I mean there is always an easy aspect to a class whether it be; allowed redo's of quizzes, short paper lengths, extended study guides, etc. Of course this does not necessarily upset me. although it would be comforting to know I am getting the highest level of education possible for the price of tuition.

Tips for prospective students

Learn to deal with constant wind and rain. Do backround checks on your professors, it is the best way to learn about a class and what you are expected to do.

In three sentences

Western is an average school with above average students. Campus itself is nothing special, nor are its general courses and professors. However, the people you will meet are extremely individualistic and will change your life for the better, no matter your personality.

If you ever go downtown, you must go to Mallard's for ice cream. Coconut chocolate chunk with almonds is my favorite.

Bang for the buck

The price for in-state tuition is great.

What to do for fun

I enjoy going off campus to parties and hiking around the arboretum.

Food and Dining

The food is not very good as it is basically the same food everyday.

Dorm Life

I recommend living on the Ridge your first year as you are sort of forced to meet a lot of new people.

Academic Rigor

Western is academically challenging and has interesting programs.

Tips for prospective students

Bring a rain jacket and some rain boots!

In three sentences

Western Washington is a great school for students who do not mind rainy, cold and depressing weather. The campus is beautiful in the spring, however in the winter it is terribly dull. The students are typically very friendly.

There's always something going on on campus, especially in the spring. If not, you can always go downtown and explore.

Food and Dining

The university provides many varieties of food for the different eaters-meat, vegan, vegetarian, everything. And there is a lot of variety so that the same exact thing isn't served each night.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great. The dorms are very clean and generally pretty quiet. Each dorm has various activities for the students to participate in each day.

Academic Rigor

The classes are tough, but that just means that you're getting a good education. Most of the lecture classes are exam-based, which means studying your lecture notes is extremely important.

Tips for prospective students

Keep an open mind with everything, and reach out to connect with others who share your major. Talk to your professors if you have a problem. Take notes in your lecture classes.

In three sentences

This community and school has a very close-knit feeling to it. The teachers are all fantastic and always willing to help you and discuss issues with the class. Plus, it always feels like there's always activities for the students to do when they're not in class.

Taylor from WA

06/11/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

If you ever stay out at a different dorm late, and you are afraid of walking back to your dorm Western has a group of volunteers called Green Coats who are fellow WWU students who will come and walk you back to your room if you call them.

Greek Life

No Greek life. Western doesn't have a Greek row, but the Ridge has dorms, Alpha, Delta, Sigma, Gama, Beta, and Kapa.

Clubs and Activities

Lots of clubs, and leagues you can join to play games and sports.

Great for these types of students

Laid back students, friendly, mostly liberal, and a lot of hippies.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

On North campus once a year they hold a Floor Wars, where Edens Hall, Edens North and Higginson all compete against the different floors to win a pizza party. I'm not sure if the other living communities on campus do this.

Bang for the buck

Bellingham is a great city, and Western is a great school. We won the NCAA division II Basketball Men's Championship this past season. Going to the sporting events are a great way to show suport for our Vikings!

What to do for fun

There are many clubs at Western. Bellingham is a fun place to go shopping, and just walking around. it's very easy to find things going on around campus too. Normally posters for events are on the walls in most of the dorm room halls. A lot of trails near campus, and since we have water near by, you can rent out kanues and other things.

Food and Dining

Western just got a new caterer, and the food in my opinion is not very good. A lot of the same food day in and day out.

Dorm Life

Choosing your living arrangement can be the difference between enjoying your time at Western, and hating it. North Campus Dorms are for the academic students who want to study hard and focus mostly on school. Up on the Ridge it is more of the party dorms. If you live there be ready to hear loud shouting and music through the night. Then there is Fairhaven, where art lovers live. The rooms are nice, and vary in size.

Academic Rigor

Depends on which classes you take, and what major you choose. If you pick to be an English Major, be prepared to write a paper for every class time. If you choose to be a Biology Major most work lies in studying most nights.

Tips for prospective students

Choosing your living arrangement can be the difference between enjoying your time at Western, and hating it.

In three sentences

WWU is a great college with friendly people and great teachers. The campus is beautiful, and if you don't mind the heavy rainfall and cold weather you will love the Bellingham atmosphere. Western has a laid back attitude, and the campus is a 10 minute walk from end to end. If you chose WWU you will love it in B-HAM!

Tessa from Fall City, WA

06/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

On campus is very well lite, and walking across campus really isn't scarey. But western has green coats that you can call, and the will walk with you across campus. some of my friends have even gotten rides from the green coats when it is raining outside. Really campus is very safe, however there have been several muggings right outside of the north end of campus. Just coming off of high street is kind of a dangerous street and you shouldn't walk there alone at night.

Greek Life

there is no greek life on campus, however the party scene is the ridge dormitories. If you are looking for a crazy party and are under age the ridge is were it is at. otherwise the york district downtown in where you go to party when you are 21. this is considered student off campus housing and is always a very noisy neighborhood.

Great for these types of students

outdoor types. if you are interested in biology of environmental science, I highly recommend this college. Also if you are interested in native and indigenous studies. There are a lot of local tribes in the area, and western's anthropology department is working with the Nooksack nation.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

As a freshman you really have to go to at least one party on the ridge. especially if you don't live on the ridge. As a freshman you also need to swim in the fountain in red square, it's not permitted, but you must! Also HvZ is a fun time for students whether you do or don't participate.

Bang for the buck

I guess going to college is really expensive no matter what college you go to, But I find it really hard to cover the cost of schooling and living. If you go to your classes I think the experiences and schooling is worth it. Education is a privilege, and not something to be taken lightly. Even with the rising tuition cost, I know western is one of the lower costing colleges in Washington, but even so, they are an excellent school, and really do have teachers that are willing to focus on their students.

What to do for fun

Western is located in Bellingham. Bellingham is made for the outdoors person. Personally my favorite thing to do is to go exploring. there are several beaches and parks, walks, and hikes that you can do off campus. during spring quarter, my friends and I spend most of your time at Whatcom Lake. The clubhouse rents out canoes and kayaks for $3. especially if you have never been on the water, it is something that every college student should experience. If you are not into the outdoors so much, you can always go into Fairhaven (the town, not the dooms), and walks around town. Downtown bellingham and Fairhaven are great places to eat, my personal favorite being the Boundary Bay Brewery. If you want some activities on campus there is always the rec center; open to all western students. Also western offers a wide variety of clubs from Minecraft club to Spanish club. Also you can go into the Fairhaven doors and play pool and ping-pong. basically it is really hard to be bored in Bellingham.

Food and Dining

The dining halls on western's campus are no exception to the freshman 15. The food is good for the first quarter, but after a while it all tastes the same. not in a bad way, but in a typical college dining hall way.

Dorm Life

I lived in Fairhaven my freshman year of college and loved it. I met my best friends there and shared a great year with the people. Western also does a Viking launch program which I participated in. This program was held for 2 weeks in Fairhaven. The experience was exceptional. Also Fairhaven isn't set up like a normal dorm; rather like wings of a house. each floor had 5 suites, and each suite had 2-4 rooms attached by a bathroom. This layout gave the door a home-like attribute to living on campus. Sophomore year my friends and I moved to Birnam Wood; the on-campus apartments. Looking back this residency had less of the community feeling that Fairhaven had. The apartment style housing was good for second and third year students who have jobs and actually study.

Academic Rigor

College is not mystery. Go to class, pay attention, and learn how to effectively study. Certainly the upper level classes are more time demanding, but are just as passable as the lower 100 and 200 level classes.

Tips for prospective students

The one thing that I had to learn the hard was was try and see an academic adviser at least once each year. especially if you are like me and am not sure of your major and change it several times. They keep things in perspective for you and also keep you on track. College is expensive and its good to keep on schedule so you are not there longer than you have to be. Ans my second tip is get to know your professors. They come in handy when you need help or recommendations for programs. but most of all, the best tip I can give is to go to all your classes. only miss a day if you have to. Last quarter I had a rough patch in my life and didn't want to get out of bed. As a result I missed a lot of class periods and my grades and GPA dipped because of it.

In three sentences

Western is a science and woodring program oriented school located in beautiful Bellingham. Western offers the college experience without Greek life. Western's programs and location caters to people who have a variety of interests.

Sarah from Seattle, WA

06/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Western is extremely safe! The biggest crime that happens on campus is bike theft. There is a University Police force and people available in the wee hours of the morning to escort you back to your dorm if you don't want to walk alone- they're super nice!

Greek Life

There is no Greek system at Western.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Our statues on campus are very quirky- there is a Mammoth head sinking in a pond behind Miller Hall.

What to do for fun

Lake Whatcom is awesome for kayaking, canoeing, sailing, etc. There is a mall (Bellis Fair) and multiple movie theaters in Bellingham (be sure to check out the Pickford). There are great places around town to go out to eat, beautiful parks (especially Boulevard Park) and Fairhaven district. Bellingham is bike friendly and Western gives you a bus pass as part of your fees so getting around is super easy. Club activity on campus, weekly concerts and lectures, film festivals, dorm activities, inter-mural sports, etc. are enough to keep anyone busy.

Food and Dining

The food is not the best at Western but it could be worse. There is a full Starbucks, Subway, burger joint, pizza place, a few markets, an awesome smoothie shack and cafeterias for your meal plan. Cafeteria food is what you'd expect- Cafeteria food.

Dorm Life

The dorms are comfortable and very community oriented. Freshman should definitely look into North Campus.

Academic Rigor

Academics are what you make it. It's really easy to skate by at Western taking easy classes but there are very interesting, academically-challenging courses with thought provoking, amazingly talented teachers available.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you visit every school you are seriously thinking of attending! Take a tour of Western and make sure Western has the education path you intend when coming to school.

In three sentences

Western is a fun, liberal, eco-friendly college. It's small enough to feel like a community but large enough that you don't feel trapped. It is the perfect school for laid back liberal students seeking careers in education, environmental science, business, the fine arts, etc.

Anna from Chehalis, WA

There are emergency poles, and 24/7 security established around the campus.

Clubs and Activities

Any club you can think of, you can make it happen!

Great for these types of students

Anyone!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Zombie Apocalypse game, hands on example of exponential rates.

Bang for the buck

The view is amazing!

What to do for fun

Long-boarding, nature walks in the Aboritorum, music performances at the Underground Coffee House.

Food and Dining

The dining halls have several options each meal. There is even vegan and vegetarian food prepared for each meal.

Dorm Life

There are many options for dorm lifestyle. Gender inclusive housing is even an option.

Academic Rigor

I am currently attempting a physics major, the teachers try to help students with understanding the big picture of concepts.

Tips for prospective students

Don't start off taking all difficult core classes. Check out the art around campus!

In three sentences

The campus is surrounded by nature, a very earthy calming feel. The teachers are available to help outside of the classroom. There are tutoring centers for each major option, and succeeding students are able to apply and become tutors.

Kendra from Stanwood, WA

Go to the underground coffee house!! Definitely has one of the better coffees and smoothies!

What to do for fun

Go outdoors! Visit the lakes, Whatcom Falls, and the hiking trails. Also spend a day downtown or in Fairhaven where there are a lot of little shops to look around in.

Food and Dining

Times they don't have the best selection at the dining halls, other times they do. After awhile the food will seem to be the same and certainly not as good as a home cooked meal. But take advantage of dining dollars and visit vendors row.

Dorm Life

Dorms are very community centered. It is a great way to meet different people and make awesome new friends. I lived on north campus and loved it.

Academic Rigor

The course work is at a pretty fast, but steady pace that is fairly easy to get use to. I found it to be challenging in a good way.

Tips for prospective students

Try your hardest in all of your classes, even if it is a 101 class, the work load can become quite overwhelming. Do not procrastinate and finish your work as soon as you can. You do not want to be one of those people using the libraries 24 hour section because you forgot or put off doing something. With all of that aside, have fun and make friends! The first year I spent at Western is one I will not forget.

In three sentences

I love the atmosphere at Western, which includes the people and the environment itself! The teachers are very helpful and really care about the students' success. I felt very welcomed and accepted at Western, not feeling like I had to try to fit in and I do not regret deciding to attend there!

Jasmine from Bellingham, WA

07/06/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Students are alerted by email and have the option to be alerted by phone when an emergency such as a robbery, dissapearance, et cetera is reported, at any hour. Students can be escorted by police or other students if they feel endangered at night, and the every 15 minute go line the transit system runs on for many parts of the city makes traveling without a car safe, cheap, and easy.

Clubs and Activities

I've been to salsa dancing club, Do it Yourself club, and Green Parrot Society improv club myself, but there are numerous others for students of any interest.

Great for these types of students

-if you like small schools in small towns, WWU is for you. -if you are earth friendly, like to recycle and eat locally, are environmentally conscious, and like organic, healthy food, Bellingham is for you. -If you like being outdoors, Bellingham is for you. -If you don't like rain, Bellingham is not for you.

Bang for the buck

Tuition for in state students is about 5,000 vs 17,000 for out of state students. Housing and dining are very costly, averaging $9 a meal and $700 roughly to share a room with another person and a whole house with several dozen. Increasing credit load, living off campus, eating off campus and buying used books can decrease college costs.

What to do for fun

Downtown bellingham, Fairhaven, the mall, the beach, Whatcom Lake, Larrabee State park, and Seattle are all places people go to get away. Kayaking, sailing, hiking, small shops and name brand venues for shopping, local music, restaurants, cafes are all things found off campus. WWU also hosts concerts, events, clubs, sports games, and has a gym for people to unwind in their free time.

Food and Dining

The dining halls are all you can eat style buffet, offering daily salads, pizza, a few vegetarian options, varying dishes night by night, soups, breakfast foods, et cetera. The price can either be high or low depending on one's food intake, but many get tired of dining hall food. Good for social experience.

Dorm Life

Dorms bring freshmen together as a friendly, inclusive community with many events, social functions, and hang out time. However, dorms are expensive, can be crowding, and are an essentially freshman experience.

Academic Rigor

Read the material, go to class, take up study groups and talk to your professors and you'll do fine. WWU has tutoring centers, the professors have office hours, and classmates will be willing to help. Difficulty varies by major, credit level, individual factors, and credit load as well.

Tips for prospective students

-Live off campus and don't have a meal plan. The costs of living are reduced drastically this way, and rooms can be found in houses that are rented out to students for very low cost. -get to know your professors and don't be afraid to ask for help, ever!

In three sentences

WWU has a beautiful, friendly, rustic campus with tons of trees, trails, the bay surrounding it, and a great community. It has about 15,000 students and is located near downtown Bellingham as well as Fairhaven, both popular and fun places for students to spend a night on the town. One can bike anywhere around Bellingham, buy farm fresh produce, spend time at the beach, or escape to the woods.

Elizabeth from Bellingham, WA

lots of officers around, i was never really worried about my safty ever.

Greek Life

Theres no greek life

What to do for fun

There are a lot of fun things to do in and around bellingham, most activities you can take the bus. A bus pass is provided with tuition. If your under age, there is a lot of hiking and other outdoor activities. WWU has a private part of whatcome lake that you can rent kayaks, windsurfing boars and other watersport equitment for really cheap. the outdoor center also has camping equitment and other things you can rent. night life for 21 and over. rumors is a good bar to visit as far as a dance club, yes its the gay bar, but has the best music and enviornment out of any club. this is coming from a girl who has a boyfriend. Also the underground is a common place to go, but has a lot of older club music playing.

Food and Dining

The food was pretty good, but make sure you mix it up.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is surprisingly not too bad. I spent my freshman year in the dorms and met some interesting people. The dorm food is pretty good and varied.

Tips for prospective students

A few tips I would give perspective students are: 1. always make sure you know your deadlines for classes. 2. don't percrastinate. 3. always go to your professors office hours, to communicate and ask questions.

In three sentences

I would give it full ratings to WWU, because everyone is so friendly and helpful. The staff gives you ample attention.

Erin from Tacoma, WA

07/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus is very well lit, there are always security officers walking around and there is a group called the green coats who will pick up student and walk or drive them home safely 24/7 anywhere within a mile of campus with no charge even if the student appears to have been drinking. I have personally used the green coats several times when I was walking home at a late hour and they are fast, very nice, and made me feel completely safe. Bellingham as a whole is also very safe, the most common crime is bike seat and front wheel theft.

Greek Life

There is no greek system. Every 4 years student vote on weather or not they want Western to have a greek system and every time the students vote no because Western is very inclusive and the greek system is inherently exclusive.

Clubs and Activities

Every club you could possibly think of is at Western. As of the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year there were 206 clubs that were holding meetings. If you can think of a possible club that doesn't already exist, all it takes if 4 friends and a quick application.

Great for these types of students

Future teachers, future green engineers and auto mechanics, anyone wanting to go into anthropology, biology, biochemistry, neurobiology, environmental science, or music. Students at western are very diverse but overall accepting so whatever your style, political beliefs, sexual orientation, future plans, religion, race, ect. You'll find a place at Western.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

It is common for the Honors students to play midnight ultimate frisbee with an LED frisbee on friday nights even in the snow or the rain, and to jump into the ocean off of the boardwalk at the end of every quarter. There is also a hidden tree house and huge rope swing hidden in the small forrest near campus.

Bang for the buck

Western is a public university so the tuition is much lower then a private college, they also have a lot of scholarship money dedicated to out of state students. Western is big enough to have 206 clubs to choose from and hundreds of majors and minors but still have research opportunities for undergraduates, small class sizes, and professors who are easily accessible.

What to do for fun

Western is a one minute walk from a small very hikable forrest, is a five minute walk from the ocean, A five minute walk to two downtown areas with restaurants/nightclubs/shopping/farmers market/movie theaters all prices with college student in mind. All students get a bus pass for the entire county, so western is a 15 minutes drive or bus ride from a lake where students can rent 3 person sail boats or single person kayaks for $5 and $3 respectively, a 15 minute drive or bus ride from state parks with places to camp and hike, and its a 45 minute drive or bus ride from Mt. Baker ski resort which receives new snow as often as it rains in Bellingham (Bellingham is one of the most rainy cities in the country)

Food and Dining

Ive always been a picky eater so I had a hard time adjusting to eating in the on campus cafeteria. I survived mostly on the fresh local produce and soft serve ice cream. Western is very food allergy/vegetarian/vegan friendly but their are also lots of burgers, tacos, burritos, and sandwiches to keep any hungry 18 year old boy happy all year.

Dorm Life

I lived on north Campus in the Honors dorm (aka Edens Hall). My RA was wonderfully supportive and helpful, the dorm events helped me make friends in the first week of school, the student council had fun things like movie nights, dances, christmas card making, and sports tournaments just about every week but it was still quiet enough in my room to study for my 18 credit coarse load which included honors calculous.

Academic Rigor

At Western if you want a corse load of meaningful and challenging classes that allow you to grow as a student and as an educated person, you can easily find that at Western even as a freshmen.

Tips for prospective students

The best thing a perspective student at Western can do is apply for the honors program. They accept applicants based on test scores and grades, but also on volunteer work, diversity, special talents and a whole array of other aspects. Accepted students to the program have access to honors only classes with the best professors in the University for the rest of their time at Western even if students choose to not complete all the extra requirements needed to graduate with honors. Honors students also get one on one time with advisors, a guaranteed spot in the nicest dorm on campus, and an instant friend group full of unique and talented people. Its completely worth the 45 minutes of extra time on an application.

In three sentences

I think Western Washington University deserves a 10 out of 10 for any student looking into getting a teaching degree or a degree in anything involving the study, protection, or efficient use of the environment and its natural resources. As a freshmen in Western's honors program, I personally have had the opportunity to be up close and personal with real publishable research in the chemistry department, which is an experience I would not have had at another University in Washington. In addition to numerous unique programs and opportunities for students, the Western campus has a fantastic atmosphere, every day I am greeted and smiled at by students and facility who make me feel as if the whole campus is lit up, even on the most overcast of pacific northwest days.

Kairi from Seattle, WA

07/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have a campus security and there are buttons to press if you are in danger. The campus security will also escort you at night to your dorm if necessary. The reason I didn't give it a five star is because really early in the morning there were a couple of purse snatchings on campus.

Greek Life

There is none even though our ridge has building names that resemble Greek life. My second roommate moved from the ridge because it was to loud for her to study.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs and activities around campus. You just have to go and join them.

What to do for fun

Bellingham has many places to go there's a mall you can shop at. It has a movie theater, Fairhaven which has some stores and food places, the docks, downtown Bellingham which has Mallard's ice cream (try the ice cream has many strange flavors you wouldn't find anywhere else.), a pet store, two music stores (one of them has a free box. It usually has random Cds in it along with some Bellingham musicians), food places such as pizza, burgers ( My favorite place was Bob's burgers), and Mexican food with big burritos. You can do some activities the school has, go to the art gallery, Rec center, watch a movie out at the sculpture with stairs that form an M, hang out with friends, roommates, suitemates, hike, bike, participate in the Humans vs Zombies (need Nerf guns, or taped up socks to play, the players I saw were wearing neon orange bandannas (The game is crazy)).

Food and Dining

Food in the dining hall was buffet style with all you can eat. It was okay but the food gets tiring after awhile. I recommend not getting the all quarter meal plan I had 150 meal plan and had a lot of meals left over and you get dining dollars which work for the subway, the markets and other food places on campus. A helpful thing I found was that my suitemate put up the times the dining hall was open and when it closed. It was very helpful for when I couldn't remember the times.

Dorm Life

I lived in Higginson. It was a suite style dorm which means that I lived with three other girls but shared a room with only one of them, and the middle area was shared between the four of us. There are five floors in Higginson and I lived on the fourth floor the fishbowl lounge, the front desk, TV lounge, Kitchen, mail, bike racks and laundry room was on the first floor. Garbage and recycle are outside near the first floor. There is an elevator but it takes forever so usually I would take the stairs except when I was doing laundry or taking out the garbage. There is a study lounge on each of the floors. Each floor has a dorm advisor who at times will have to man the front desk in the Edens or Higginson dorms. The reason for that is because the Edens and Higgison dorms form a community which do a lot of activities together. During my year at Western I had two different roommates and each only stayed for a quarter. They moved out to an apartment or loft. So spring quarter I had the room to myself.

Tips for prospective students

Don't procrastinate, double check due dates and talk to teachers.

In three sentences

A beautiful campus with many art sculptures within it and with friendly people that will let you eat with them and even wave hi to you when you don't even know them. Small class sizes , an awesome sport facility with a swimming pool and a big library. You can get to just about everywhere in Bellingham by bus, biking or walking though the mall and Costco are a bit far from campus.

Senior from WA state

07/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

WWU has a minimal number of crimes that take place. If a crime ever occurs, it's generally robbery at 3 am in the morning. During my time at WWU, I've never heard of anyone getting hurt. WWU has a system that texts emergency alerts at the time of crimes.

Greek Life

Doesn't exist! This is awesome news depending on what type of person you are!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs Zombies is quite the fun tradition. Even if you are not a part of the game, just watching dressed up people run around campus and throw socks at each other is entertaining on its own. As for locations, I'd say the library is quite interesting. It's like a labyrinth with nice hiding spots around every corner for you to either doze off in or study. Mostly doze off. There are funky reading spots in hidden areas which are generally kept a secret. Also, for the ladies, I'll tell you that there's a sleeping lounge in one of the bathrooms in the Environmental Studies building.

What to do for fun

There's just so much to do. WWU's award winning improv group Dead Parrots Society performs at the end of every week either for free or for a suggested $3 donation (or canned goods). WWU hosts concerts almost on a weekly basis as well. You can also join a semiannual nerf war Humans vs Zombies. If you want to get away from campus, there are several music venues, restaurants and clubs in downtown Bellingham or Fairhaven which is a bus ride away from wherever you may be. If you just want to get away from people in general, there are many parks you can visit, a state park with inspiring views just a couple miles south of WWU and Mt Baker east of WWU, which offers hundreds of camping and hiking options as well as skiing/mountain biking during the correct seasons.

Food and Dining

WWU has 3 dining halls and several little cafes and markets spread across campus. The dining halls are operated by students and a few full-time chefs. They offer a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian options for those who have restrictions. The markets offer hundreds of food options ranging from simple items like yogurts and fruits to whole meals such as soups & paninis and pizza combos. These places are student operated as well. Also, there are Freshens smoothie, Starbucks and Tony's Coffee stands across campus as well.

Dorm Life

WWU is known for not having a Greek style dorm. There's north campus, the Ridge, and south campus, when it comes to housing. Freshmen complain about being in the dorms before school starts, but eventually all of them end up enjoying their stay. Hall Council hosts a lot of fun and free events for students to gather and meet others while releasing stress from classes. Personally, this will be my third year in the dorms and I love it. Also, looking for housing off campus can just be a hassle. So many ads, phone calls and numbers to follow!

Academic Rigor

WWU offers broad varieties of classes that can appeal to a great number of people. The 100-200 level classes are generally introductory classes that even someone who is not interested in the major can successfully attend for GUR credit. Professors are willing to help, as well as the academic advisers. They are also fun to just chat with, whenever they are not busy in their labs.

Tips for prospective students

Students coming up to WWU should not be fooled by the overcasting clouds. Even though there is rain much of the time, the springtime sunsets and snow-covered fields in the winter are to die for. WWU is perfect for students who want to get away from home, AND big cities. Bellingham is big enough to have a nightlife yet is small enough to not be overwhelming.

In three sentences

WWU is set in a great location that appeals to a large audience. The university is surrounded by great city life. Dozens of coffee shops, cheap restaurants, local venues and thrift stores accompany one's budget quite well. WWU is also surrounded by Larrabee state park, numerous beaches, parks and a nearby mountain, Mt. Baker.

Jakob from Spokane, WA

The city of Bellingham has a lot to offer, with the coastline, deep forests and beautiful lakes it's hard to get bored here.

Tips for prospective students

If you do your best here, then you will succeed. There's nothing else to it.

In three sentences

The environment here is wonderful and the community is pretty tight-knit due to the relatively small size of the school. The teachers are very down-to-earth and the lectures and classes for me have all been pretty engaging so far. I love this place and the people and education that is there.

Davis from Stevenson, WA

08/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

It's basically the same as most other universities. In any densely-populated areas there's bound to be crime, though there are very few occurrences of it on the campus it's self, it's best to use caution when going around town at night.

Greek Life

Western doesn't have necessarily have frats or anything of that manner. The Ridge dorms do have a Greek lettering system but anyone can choose to house in them, though they are still considered the party dorms. Without the addition of frat houses, most of the partying that does go on is located outside of campus at student houses. This may be dismaying to some, but it does add an interesting variance on venues and how you go about getting into parties. It's more about having to actually go out and connect with people if you want to party, and because of that it's a lot more communal and welcoming.

Clubs and Activities

Almost anyone can make a club for almost anything; from harry potter quidditch to race car design, Western probably has a club to fit your desires. And if you can't find a club for your passion, you're always welcome to start one up.

Great for these types of students

Kids who aren't geared for a bustling city atmosphere will enjoy Western's smaller student body. At around 14,000 students it's about half the amount of city schools like University of Washington, which has a similar campus size but twice the population. And if you're a fan of the environment, the Fairhaven dorms have a reputation for housing the more earth-friendly students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you can find it, the arboretum rope swing is an awesome place to chill at on a spring evening and have some fun.

Bang for the buck

As far as tuition goes, Western is pretty cheap considering its graduation rate and quality of professors, even more so if you're living off campus. Depending on what disciplined you're going into, there are many employment opportunities right out of graduation.

What to do for fun

For starters, Western has an amazing selection of campus clubs, events, and music venues that happen all year long. But if you're looking to explore the town and surrounding landscape, Bellingham has a lot to offer. Western it's self borders the Sehome arboretum, which is full of hiking and running trails, and is minutes away from downtown. In the winter, Mount Baker is a popular attraction for skiers and snowboarders alike and in the summer kayaking and sailing are all the rage.

Food and Dining

Western University has three separate dining halls located throughout the campus. The Viking Commons is the main hub for student dining, and services most of north campus and has a general selection that varies day to day. The Ridgeway complex has its own dining hall and has a more limited selection but is integrated into the building. For vegetarians and vegans, the Fairhaven Commons have the largest selection.

Dorm Life

Western has an amazing variance in terms of dorm life; from the party-hardy Ridgeway complex to the academically-focused Edens dorms, or even the hippy forest-dwellers of Fairhaven complex, there's likely a dorm that is curtailed towards your lifestyle.

Academic Rigor

The level of difficulty depends overall on what degree you're set on. As far as general university requirements go, it's all very feasible. Though as with any other university out there, there's always those few classes that will have a notorious reputation for being hard but so long as you plan out your schedules according to them, they're not a problem.

Tips for prospective students

The professors here love to meet with their students during their office hours. Even if it isn't a course-related question or if you just feel like chatting with them, they always appreciate it when their students drop by.

In three sentences

Western University has a very welcoming student atmosphere. The location is beautiful and has tons of outdoor activities that vary from season to season. The programs and clubs offered are curtailed to the wants of the student body instead of being defined by the school's monetary goals.

Aaron from Bellingham, WA

08/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus safety is great. It is well staffed, there is even a special unit that will walk people home late at night. The campus is well lit and there is a late night shuttle for those going off campus.

Clubs and Activities

From outdoor movies, to a community garden, to clubs for every kind of interest, there is plenty to do on campus. The Associated Students do a great job with clubs and activities to get students involved on campus.

Great for these types of students

Students who love the outdoors. Students who love a small town environment. Students interested in agriculture and/or green/sustainable living.

Bang for the buck

An education at Western the experience students will have on campus and in Bellingham is well worth the cost.

What to do for fun

Outdoor activities are hands down one of the best, and most available options. Mt. Baker and the North Cascades, as well as the San Juan Islands, and British Columbia are all very close with many activities ranging from mountain biking to snowboarding available. Even within the city limits, there are plenty of places to get to easily and enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of clubs on campus as well along with several NCAA sports. The cities of Seattle and Vancouver are only an hours drive south and north respectively.

Food and Dining

There are three dining halls on campus run by Armark, so the food is not great, and the meal plans do not sound like they offer much flexibility and possibly not enough meals to students. Outside of the dining halls one has to go off campus to find other dining and food options which is not very convenient.

Dorm Life

I have not lived in the dorms on campus. However, the times I have visited friends in the dorms, they seem like they are good but not great. Some of the facilities are older and small, but life put on by the Resident Assistants seems great and it appears there is an active commitment to creating a fun and welcoming community.

Academic Rigor

With an internationally known MBA program, Fairhaven College of Interdisciplinary Studies, and one of the better environmental colleges and teaching programs, Western passes the mark for academic rigor. Class sizes, with some exceptions, are small so professors tend to assign a good amount of work. The small classes also make student involvement greater and create a more active learning environment.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to be a part of the community of Bellingham. Opportunities are always present to take part in some activity in the community, whether it be a farmers market or volunteering with underprivileged youth, there is always a chance to reach out. Be prepared to do some work. Classes can be rigorous, and the university requirements are broad and ask you to delve into many subjects. But if you stay on top of your work you will be fine. Bring some warm clothes. Bellingham can be very chilly during the winter months.

In three sentences

For students looking to be a part of their communities and reach out beyond campus and make a difference. Located in a beautiful city and one of the most beautiful parts of the Pacific Northwest. One of the better academic institutions, in many aspects, not only in Washington but in the region.

Trace from Bellingham, WA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

The city alone is a very safe place to live. So naturally the school would be the same.

Greek Life

No greek life which, in my opinion, is awesome.

Clubs and Activities

From what I can tell there are a ton of clubs ranging from football to improv.

Great for these types of students

Any student determined to excel in academics, and not just make it with a sports scholarship.

Bang for the buck

So far I can't say for certain. I am merely going off of other students testimonials.

What to do for fun

Bellingham in general offers a lot of culture and art. The school participates in many city functions. There are 5 lakes in the city alone, and a coast. The city is about 45 minutes from Canada, and about 2 hours from Seattle. There is a lot to do here.

Can't say much about dorm life. I don't live in them. Again, from what I hear, the dorms are very nice. And, the people have been, for the most part, awesome.

Academic Rigor

I have heard from countless students that the academics are some of the best in the state. The rigor, as stated I have heard is strong. Meaning you will need time to study and prepare. This is obvious with any college, and should be that way.

Tips for prospective students

I couldn't rightfully state any tips as of right now. Maybe the only tip I could say is attend Summer Start for freshman.

In three sentences

The school has a very comfortable atmosphere, which is important for a learning establishment, in my opinion. The school cares for the students, and allows the students in on the decision making. It's a school dedicated to learning over anything else, and not just how much money it can make with the football team.

Cassidy from Denali Park, AK

08/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Most if campus is pretty safe. Main campus is very well lit at night and there are student escorts to help you get home if you don't feel safe. University police do regular patrols of campus. The only really sketchy part of campus is the mile walk to Birnam Wood. Parts of the road are not lit. However it is a heavily driven road which makes it feel safer.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for just about everything at Western. You like Disney movies? We have a club for that. Completely into Harry Potter? There is a club for that too. Don't like others telling you what to do or say, want to think for your self? Join the Free Thinkers Club.

Great for these types of students

If you are a liitle quirky or like to stand out this is the place for you. It doesn't matter who you were in high school, embracing you is what Western is about.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Make sure you check out the Stairs to Nowhere at eh end of South campus. A favorite study place for many students and a great place to people watch.

Bang for the buck

Its a little expensive for out of state students, but the education you get and the friends you make will last a life time.

What to do for fun

From spots games to clubs to movie showings to plays, there is a never ending amount to things to do at Western. If it tickles your fancy, you can find it somewhere at Western.

Food and Dining

The dining halls are not the best. Meals are on a schedule so you wind up eating the same things more times then you'd like. However there are a lot of options so the pros and cons balance each other out. Plus you can't beat warm cookies at Thursday Late Night.

Dorm Life

Again it depends on where you live, but housing is nice. The Ridge is similar to Greek row in how it is set up and that is how it is treated by most of the students and staff. The Birnam Wood apartments are very nice. They are the perfect size for four people; two bedrooms, a large bathroom, a decent sized kitchen and a good sized living room. Since they are still on campus its easy to get to classes, but they are far enough away that you feel a little more independent.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on which professors you get, but it is a huge leap from high school work. If you know how to stay on task and keep yourself motivated you should be fine.

Tips for prospective students

Focus on your essay when applying. It's one of the biggest things to set you apart from the rest of the applicants. Also recommendations are important, a good recommendation can do wonders.

In three sentences

Western cares about it's students. Academics are important, but the students are top priority. Never a dull moment.

Jessica from Johnstown, CO

They have security guards who walk the campus at night and are there to escort you to your dorm if you don't feel safe.

Greek Life

Non-existent. There are dorms called Greek names like Kappa and Alpha where students who want the Greek life prefer to live.

Clubs and Activities

They have a club fair at the beginning of the year to get on email lists and find out about cool clubs.

Great for these types of students

Outdoorsy, down-to-earth

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is an arboretum on campus with a rope swing, which is fun to hike to on a Saturday.

Bang for the buck

Even as an out-of-state student I feel like I am getting more than what I pay for.

What to do for fun

You can go downtown for Russian dumplings or the farmer's market, or head to Boulevard Park for a beautiful sunset. There are lots of great places to hike and explore.

Food and Dining

They make an effort to use local, fresh ingredients. However, it's still Aramark, and they are a big corporation looking to save money instead of providing real quality food.

Dorm Life

There are so many activities and ways to meet people, and most of them aren't too cheesy. Different dorms offer different atmospheres, and you can pick which one suits you best. I lived in a suite-style dorm, and it was extremely nice.

Academic Rigor

I have learned a lot in classes like Calculus 2 and Physics, but I was able to pull off A's or A-'s in almost all my classes.

Tips for prospective students

Live in the dorms your first year to make new friends, and get involved in at least one club. Clubs open your eyes to all the awesome things WWU and Bellingham have to offer.

In three sentences

WWU creates a great community. The campus is gorgeous, and the classes are all personal and small. They offer many unique majors and classes.

Erin from Everett, WA

09/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are SO many clubs! Whatever you're into, there's a club for it, guaranteed. We have everything from outdoor clubs like biking, to dancing clubs, to religious clubs, to academic clubs, to game clubs, to improv clubs, and SO MUCH MORE! Join a club that interests you for sure. There's also a lot of outdoorsy stuff for people to do around Bellingham and Canada is only a hop, skip, and a jump away and Canada is always fun.

Food and Dining

The food here is surprisingly good. Be careful not to eat too much though, because although they offer healthy choices, there's a lot of food that will help you to easily gain the freshman 15.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great! You meet so many people and learn a lot about yourself living so closely with other people, that aren't your family.

Academic Rigor

The quarter just started, so things are a little slow. It will pick up in the next couple of weeks, and the classes definitely get harder the further you get into your major.

Tips for prospective students

Be yourself, there is a group of people, or club, or sport, or field of study for everyone here and you will make a lot of new friends. Be ready to walk, Western's campus is bigger than it looks, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes, walking up and down campus, hills, and through all the uneven brick can be a pain if you decided to wear your super cute 6 inch heels to class, just be careful. One last thing, have fun! You're new to college, away from home, not living with mom and dad anymore, there's so much freedom! But be careful how you chose to use all the freedom, don't get too carried away your freshman year. Yes everything is new, but you don't have to experience everything your first year and there's a lot more to college than partying.

In three sentences

Western has awesome educational programs and extracurricular activities, there's definitely something here for everyone. It's also the most welcoming campus I've ever been to. The people here are super nice, the staff is really there for you and the school offers many tools and resources for your benefit.

Freshman from Oregon

10/09/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are some great resources for keeping safe on campus. The Green Coats will escort you around campus if you don't feel safe, and there are emergency phones that you can use all around campus. And in general Western's campus feels pretty safe.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs and activities to get involved with. Everyone is super welcoming and glad to have you around, be sure to find a few to get involved with!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Go to Mallards!! Best ice cream I've ever had, no exaggeration!

Food and Dining

There's a great variety of food. Lots of options if you like trying new things as well as a variety of standard foods. Plus they have a salad bar and sandwich bar which are great.

Dorm Life

The dorms provide an awesome community and do tons of fun things together! The rooms are a pretty good size as well, and if you live on North Campus you might end up with an amazing view of the bay. I would definitely recommend living in the dorms your first year.

Academic Rigor

A lot of classes have a lot of optional work, stuff you should do on your own but isn't graded. It takes time but it's worth it. Classes aren't too tough but they're definitely interesting and the professors are great!

Tips for prospective students

In the first few weeks of school try out all the activities going on! Connecting with people who have similar interests is a great way to make friends and make the school feel more personal.

In three sentences

WWU has such an amazing community that offers so many ways to get involved! The school feels much smaller than the size that it actually is, and campus is gorgeous. It's definitely worth checking out!

Anonymous

10/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Students occasionally receive alerts via text message and email about crimes occurring on/near campus. Most have to do with girls walking around alone at 2 or 3 in the morning though. Green Coats are campus escorts students can call anytime if they need someone to walk with from one place to another.

Greek Life

No Greek life here!

Clubs and Activities

There is an abundance of clubs and organizations, even a Beyonce Appreciation club.

Great for these types of students

Outdoorsy, laid-back, environmentally aware, etc.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Outdoor Sculptures scattered around campus!

Bang for the buck

The tuition rate is excellent compared to other colleges in Washington.

What to do for fun

Hiking, rock climbing, sightseeing, etc.

Food and Dining

The dining hall food is mediocre. What more could be expected?

Dorm Life

Each dorm has its own stereotype that typically holds true. You just have to figure out which one best suits your personality and needs when applying for housing.

Academic Rigor

The professors are hit or miss. I realized the importance of doing a little research (ratemyprofessors is your best friend) before selecting classes, because professors can really make or break your classes. For the most part though, I've been fairly happy with the education I've received.

Tips for prospective students

Apply early! Preferably before November 1st. Your application is like a place holder for housing. The earlier you submit it, the closer to the front you are in line for housing choices.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is excellent for those who want a liberal arts education or would like to be a part of a reputable teaching program. If you like rain and outdoorsy activities, WWU is the place for you, however, if you prefer shopping and a vibrant nightlife, you'll find yourself struggling with boredom. I personally have not been a huge fan of the university and feel like I'm stuck in high school (a lot of in-state students), and I intend on transferring, because the major I'd like to pursue is not offered here.

Students who like long walks and being outdoors. Also students who enjoy rain, cold, and snow.

Bang for the buck

Depending on if you live on or off campus, they give you really good meal plans, but like all colleges, everything is expensive.

What to do for fun

Go on a hike! Walk to town and look at all of the cute shops by the ocean! There is also a boardwalk and many many parks in Bellingham.

Food and Dining

The food is all you can eat, but the quality isn't the best.

Dorm Life

Depending where you live. Ridgeway has very fun activities all year and they even have competitions between the buildings throughout the year. The dorms are in the woods so if you like being outdoors with trees and animals I suggest you stay in a building on the Ridge or Fairhaven. There are a lot of trails throughout Western.

Academic Rigor

Most of the professors are really nice and helpful, others just make you take notes and read books. Their tutoring center is AMAZING, really helpful with all classes. Some professors have a really strict attendance policy, depending on your professor.

Tips for prospective students

Take a campus tour! Western Washington University has the best campus touring in Washington and touring a campus will really help you to decide which school is right for you.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is very environmentally friendly. They have great business and education programs. Their campus is one of the nicest and largest in Washington state.

Aisha from Las Cruces, NM

The Greencoats are always available-- you can call and someone will escort you.

Greek Life

Non existant. It's great! Every 4 years the students vote if they want to have greek life, and every time there is an overwhelming majority rejecting the proposal.

Great for these types of students

Western is great for someone who likes the outdoors and adventures.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Twice a year, there is a campus-wide Humans vs. Zombies game. The Underground Coffeehouse on campus has open mike night and a fall quarter concert series. Try to find all of the outdoor sculptures.

Bang for the buck

I am an out-of-state student, so I have a WUE scholarship which means I only pay 1.5 instate tuition, which is still pricey, but manageable with student loans. Overall, you are going to get a really good education for what you are paying, especially if you are in the honors program.

What to do for fun

The Arboretum is WWU's backyard, and if you wander to the right places you can find a watchtower, a rope swing, a tree house, and some forts. Bellingham downtown has a nice farmers market, there are some really nice parks and hikes along the interurban trail, and jumping off of the dock into the bay is really fun, especially when the water has bioluminescence.

Food and Dining

Some days it is hit-or-miss in the dining halls, but WWU tries to use as much sustainable and local food as possible. At least once a quarter they feed us local stealhead salmon!

Dorm Life

I may be bias because I lived in the suit-style honors dorm which had huge rooms and was ideally located. Western definitely has a really good system with matching roommates together, no matter where you are living.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the professor, classes either have overwhelming workloads or are no problem. Most classes, though, are really interesting.

Tips for prospective students

Keep up with reading in classes because that's going to be the biggest shocker and also the main reason your grades will drop. Check out Bellingham downtown and Fairhaven dock. Live on campus your first year because that is where you meet all of your friends. Also, focus on GURs your first year and don't worry about finding a major/taking major classes.

In three sentences

WWU is small enough that you run into people on a daily basis, but it doesn't seem incestuous. The location is ideal, and the majors available are also expansive. Western's honors program is providing me with an additional liberal arts perspective which I really enjoy.

Annonymous from Bellingham, WA

12/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is awesome. If you are on campus unitl dark, you can call someone to walk you safely to your car or the bus stop, and if anything ever happens on, or near, campus students are notified immediately via text message.

Greek Life

No greek life

Bang for the buck

College is expensive, period. Being a Washington resident Western is a great deal for me! Great education for how much I pay

What to do for fun

For me personally, I like to work out. For being a D2 school Western has a really great Rec. Center. Another popular thing that students like to do is go to our Men's Basketball games. Although our school isnt that spirited in most of the sports Men's basketball is different, we also just won the D2 National Championship!

Food and Dining

I have never eaten in the dining center, a little bit too pricey for me, but may be worth it for other students. The other restaurants on campus available without meal plans are great!

Dorm Life

I never lived in the dorms, but they seem nice. Definitely a good place for freshman to meet friends.

Academic Rigor

Western is definitely not Harvard, but I do believe that us students here are probably given one of the best educations around. Western is not always easy, but it is mostly enjoyable

Tips for prospective students

Western is more of a scholastic school, rather than a sports oriented school. Something to keep in mind if you enjoyed the school spirit atmosphere of high school. Study hard in high school or community college and have an excellent admission essay

In three sentences

Western is a very prestigious school. I would say that you should consider yourself lucky if you ever get to attend Western. The class sizes are incredible and the professors really do care about the learning of their students.

Jayna from Kirkland, WA

12/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Western has security guards, green coats, who patrol and talk to students, and emergency blue lights that are located all over campus. It also has a lot of lights, so even when it's dark outside the campus is lit up.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs on campus with a lot of variety. There are activities every week, so be sure to look for event posters.

Great for these types of students

Environmentally-conscience students, coffee lovers, water sports fans, people who love the woods and mountains, outdoors people.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Western has a lot of little coffee shops in and around it, so explore and find your favorite.

What to do for fun

Go to downtown Bellingham or Fairhaven. Bellingham is slightly bigger, with more things to do, but Fairhaven is cute and old-fashioned. In warmer weather, there's always water sports, like kayaking.

Food and Dining

You can find hamburgers and pizza every day, but the dining halls try to have something new for each lunch and dinner as well, so it's not totally routine. Try going to different dining halls every few days to spice it up.

Dorm Life

My best friends are now my suitemates from my first year at Western. It's easy to make friends, although some of the dorms, like those on the Ridge, are pretty old. Try to get into the newer dorms.

Academic Rigor

Western is a four-year university-it has high standards. However, there are ways to find a balance and earn good grades while also having a social life.

Tips for prospective students

Try out the dorms for a year. There are always activities going on, and it's easy to make friends when you live in the same part of campus.

In three sentences

Western is a great school. It has a beautiful campus. It's very environmentally friendly, the people in Bellingham are kind, and there are buses everywhere.

Breanna from San Ramon, CA

Never felt unsafe once. Then again, I have gone through San Francisco alone on public transit. Little scares me.

Greek Life

Almost everyone is really happy there isn't Greek here. I'm not one of them though.

Clubs and Activities

It's kind of hard honestly to get into stuff because no one ever talks about it. If I wasn't on the hall council I don't know what I would be doing.

Great for these types of students

If you had a bad high school experience because people made fun of you for being different, its a great school for you. Everyone is really expecting. Again, if you are outdoorsy this school is great for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The underground coffee house is fun.

Bang for the buck

Its pretty good bang for the buck.

What to do for fun

Downtown is cool and its fun to go watch the improv shows. And there are tons of concerts and plays to go see. And if you are really outdoorsy its great.

Food and Dining

Most of the time, its really bland but some things are down right disgusting. So watch out. Oh yeah and you'll be eating a lot of salad.

Dorm Life

Dorm life here is great especially if you live on the Ridge and they don't party that much up there. But its kind of the solution to the no greek thing. There is a thing called the Ridge Cup Challenge and its really great! So well... the Ridge is where its at basically.

Academic Rigor

Well for me its not hard but I got an A- this last quarter on my english class and worked my butt off. So I feel like there is a wide range of difficulty level for classes.

Tips for prospective students

In the application process be yourself. Western loves unique and eccentric people.

In three sentences

Western is a good school. However, there is very little school spirit. And while its a party school kind of, the partying they do is usually just drinking and smoking a lot of pot.

Joe from Salt Lake City, UT

Green coats are available to walk you from location to location at night.

Greek Life

Nonexistent.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot I clubs, but it seems like an over saturation has occurred. Quantity over quality.

Great for these types of students

People interested in geology (awesome department), skiers, those looking for a good time.

Bang for the buck

As an out of state student I think I am paying way too much. Quite frankly you can tell Western is an under-funded state school.

What to do for fun

Lots of options for outdoor fun. Campus events generally fall flat.

Food and Dining

Great variety of local and organic food. Gluten free too.

Dorm Life

Although I was dorm president I found the activities to be centered, rather selfishly, on having fun. Many of the events fell short and left students feeling unengaged and bored. I hear it varies greatly between dorms though. Definitely aim to live on the ridge or north campus.

Academic Rigor

The classes aren't engaging and it can be difficult to get the help you need if you need it. A lot of the classes don't feel like college classes--there is definitely room for improvement.

Tips for prospective students

Be sure to bring heavy duty rain gear. Getting a vitamin D lamp to ward off seasonal depression if you're from a sunny state, even just as a precaution couldn't hurt.

Megan from Shoreline, WA

We have a ton of student interest groups including everything from starting your own business, to Beyonce appreciation, to Dizney and music production.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs Zombies is a game that the campus plays twice a year. It is a lot of fun to get involved or just watch the campus go crazy with lots of nerf bullets everywhere.

Bang for the buck

I am in the technical theater department. Theater schools get very expensive very quickly. Western is a good balance of a respectable department and reasonable amount taken out in student loans.

What to do for fun

Definitely check out the Underground Coffee House, it's even better then Central Perk on the show Friends.

Food and Dining

The food in the dining halls is pretty good. Lots of options for vegetarians and lots of healthy options.

Dorm Life

I live in Edens North and so far I love it there. The only negative thing is community showers. The showers are in stalls and the floor of about 30 girls share 3 showers...not a very good ratio there. But the bathrooms are cleaned by janitors three times a day.

Academic Rigor

The General University Requirements are nice to require to ensure a well rounded education. The courses required are not overly difficult unless you sign up for honors classes.

Tips for prospective students

Remember to get enough sleep and do not over work yourself. Know your limit.

In three sentences

Western has been a great experience so far. I enjoy the balance of student run clubs. Classes have been informative and worth while.

Jacqueline from Bellingham, WA

01/15/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Western is very big on Safety. We have student interns for the Campus Police called Green Coats that patrol the campus at night to ensure safety and walk students home if they desire. Western also sends out mass texts to all students when there is any kind of Danger on or around campus. Missing students are also reported in these mass texts!

Great for these types of students

If you are liberal, and you believe in equality this school is the place for you. Bellingham is immensely democratic and there are Hippies that you can spot out anywhere.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Western has some odd traditions that we do every year. For one, we have what's called Human Vs. Zombies, where everyone starts as a Human but if touched by a zombie, turns into a zombie. They have a base and nerf guns and everything it's a total war scene on campus. They also have a flash mob at least once every year that locals from around Bellingham put on for no reason.

Bang for the buck

To get more for your money, if you know what you want to major in, check the prerequisites for the major itself. More often than not, a prerequisite for your major also covers a GUR (General University Requirement.) That way you kill two birds with one stone.

What to do for fun

Bellingham has lots of outdoor activities you can do. There are several parks and places to hike which is nice for spare time. Western owns part of lake Whatcom so you can rent canoes or other equipment to enjoy the day with. There is also a shopping mall and several other stores and restaurants to visit.

Food and Dining

As tempting as certain food may sound, try and eat healthy. There is a fully stocked salad bar at Western that is always available. Treats are good on occasion if you want to splurge. You do not need the unlimited meal plan, most of the meals will get wasted and so will your money.

Dorm Life

Make sure to keep in good communication with your roommate if you have one. Get involved in activities that your hall community puts on, which will help you with your social life. Respect the boundaries of your peers and in return let your peers know of your boundaries.

Academic Rigor

Students here are always encouraged to take classes that challenge you. The tutoring center is a great place for those who struggle to understand the material of a class. Classes here can range from simple to very difficult but it all depends on the student and the courses he or she so chooses.

Tips for prospective students

Stay focused and Manage your time well. Keep an equal balance between your academic life and your social life. Make sure to take detailed notes and stay organized.

In three sentences

It is a School of diverse cultures and areas of study. Western Washington University is a place where everyone is accepted and treated equal. Academics at this school are challenging and invigorating and classes are interesting.

Alexandria from Colorado Springs, CO

02/28/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus is very safe. From the network of Greencoats to the safety beacons and phones all over campus, security is really well laid out. That and security education is mandatory at the summer introduction for new students.

Great for these types of students

Academically minded, motivated

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Red Square is the hang-out spot for studying when the sun comes out once a month. The underground coffee house: its hard to find, but check it out. There are also rumors of a rope swing somewhere in the Arboretum...

Bang for the buck

WWU is expensive for out of state students, but try to get the most out of your education. You determine the bang for your buck through your effort.

What to do for fun

Hiking, biking, swimming, camping, kayaking...the possibilities are endless! The town of Fairhaven allows access to the beach, walking around downtown provides entertainment, and Canada is less than an hour's drive away.

Food and Dining

The dining here is great. There are three different dining halls on campus, each with its own feel and each near a dorm area for easy access. The dining plans are fair. And there are several not-dorm-food options: Subway, Starbucks, and Panda Express, along with some local restaurants who set up booths on Vendor Row to the left of the commons.

Dorm Life

Yet another thing that you can decide. Eden's Hall and Eden's North are ideal places for the dedicated student; around the clock courtesy hours and extended quiet hours really assist with studying. The Ridge is the place where you can find parties. Not the best place to focus, obviously, but the dorms there are alright. They almost look like tree-houses, situated as they are on the hill. Great view of campus, with a little bit of a climb to get to your dorm each day. Fairhaven is the place where those who are vegetarian, vegan, and environmentally conscious abound. The dorm's are small though, be warned.

Academic Rigor

It highly depends on your track. An educational experience here is what you make of it. You decide on academic rigor.

Tips for prospective students

Bring a bike; there is a pretty good bus system, but a bike is nice and there is a bike-specific road behind campus that makes a bike ideal for traveling from north campus to south campus and back. Get into the Honors Program if you are into academics whatsoever. The smaller class sizes, awesome teaching staff, and great discussions are worth it...not to mention guaranteed housing in Eden's Hall, the dorm with the biggest, nicest rooms on campus. Check out the Sehome Arboretum behind campus if you are a nature lover; you have hiking trails galore, and right in your back yard!

In three sentences

Western Washington University has a campus you will fall in love with if you decide to take a tour and visit, especially for nature lovers. The teaching staff is pretty evenly split (so far as I have experienced) between teachers that are good and ones who are not so good. The dorms in North campus, especially the ones in Eden's Hall, are great, pretty big, and four people to a bathroom; pretty nice.

Allison from Silverdale, WA

03/02/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have emergency call boxes everywhere on campus, no matter where you stand if you turn in a circle you will see one. We also have the Green Coats which are a group of people who will walk you from building to building at night. There are also a number of officers who patrol the campus.

Greek Life

We don't have one.

Clubs and Activities

I cannot remember the last time there wasn't something happening on campus. There are movie nights, dances, festivals, floor wars, club activities and much much more. You will never be bored.

Great for these types of students

Students that are social, love the environment and fun. At the same time you have a lot of places and opportunities to calm down or be by yourself.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Underground Coffeehouse is a great little place here. The food and drinks are delicious and its not like your usually coffee place. The atmosphere is great if you need to wind down.

Bang for the buck

The actually tuition is not bad for price, the living halls are a little pricey but you know you get all that back when you realize how many events you get into free.

What to do for fun

Oh goodness.... There is a lot to do for fun. Humans vs. Zombies is a big thing here on campus. There are hundreds of clubs. And 5 out of every 7 days there is an activity being put on.

Food and Dining

The food can be good... and it can be bad. Its never awful but it is inconsistent.

Dorm Life

I am bias to Nash hall personally and love this dorm. The atmosphere is welcoming and warm and never for a moment have I not felt like this is the place for me. There is always someone with a kind word and a helping hand.

Academic Rigor

There are things that are hard and there are those that aren't. It all depends on you and your study/learning habits. There are a lot of lecture classes and if you can learn from those you're in good shape but most of us need to study.

Tips for prospective students

Try not to overwhelm yourself right off the bat. There are hundreds of clubs and organizations that you can get involved with, and you should, just don't put too much on your plate at once. There is time to try everything you want, just not all at the beginning.

In three sentences

Western is the place to be if you are interested in joining a community of forward thinking intelligent folks who love having fun. The faculty here is helpful, funny, and really know their stuff. Western is a place where little buds come to bloom.

Keli from Blaine, WA

Depending on what you get there is a buffet of food and it is delicious! So yummy!

Dorm Life

Has the website that has it so you can have a great roommate who is like you. Some cases it doesn't work though.

Academic Rigor

They are well rounded in their top majors. They have science and English in their top majors.

In three sentences

I have been to this campus and it is gorgeous and perfect for students. They are well rounded with majors that I have noticed. They are a perfect college for students who want to get science, English, and math!

Betty from Everett, WA

I always feel very safe on campus. It is well-lit, and the campus police are always around if you need them. It is always a good idea to try not go anywhere by yourself at night, though.

Greek Life

There's no Greek Life at Western. YAY!

Great for these types of students

Adventurous, outdoorsy, quirky, fun, intelligent

Bang for the buck

I would say I am getting an education that is as good if not even better than one I would be getting at a private school. The diversity of classes and majors is really great at Western.

What to do for fun

There are so many places to explore around Bellingham! Downtown is very cool, and hiking is very popular up here. There's beautiful scenery basically everywhere you go! The music scene is pretty hopping, too, but a lot of the clubs where the good local bands play are 21 and up, which is a bummer.

Food and Dining

I'm usually happy with the options in the dining hall. Very rarely is there a night where I have to resort to pizza because nothing else looks appetizing. There always seem to be healthy, fresh options, too, which is great.

Dorm Life

I know some people don't like living in dorms, but I love it. I have had a great time getting to know the people in my community, and basically it feels like summer camp all year round.

Academic Rigor

Some classes are hard and some are easier, but going to class and turning in work that is assigned is important no matter what. Get to know your professors, too, if at all possible.

Tips for prospective students

Bellingham is a great place to live and learn. Western is the perfect size because it's not too big, but not too small either. Take advantage of all the doors that Western leaves open for you to explore!

In three sentences

I love Western. I can't imagine completing my degree anywhere else because Western has become my home. There are so many great people, opportunities, and ways to expand my horizons.

Kristin from Bellingham, WA

There are over 200 clubs on campus, and it's really easy to start your own if you can't find anything you like.

Great for these types of students

Outdoorsy, unique, chill, pretty much any type of person.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are puppies in the library on finals week to relieve stress.

Bang for the buck

I am an out of state student, but I have a scholarship (WUE) that makes it only 1.5x in state tuition. It's a little expensive for out of state students, but for in state I think it's good!

What to do for fun

WWU is right next to the bay, a lake, the arboretum, and close to Mount Baker. That means hiking, biking, skiiing, snowboarding, kayaking, sailing, canoeing, swimming, and so much more! There is also downtown Bham, which is fun to walk around, and Fairhaven which is a cute downtown area.

Food and Dining

The food is pretty good, but gets old after a while.

Dorm Life

One of the perks of being an honors students means I get to live in one of the best dorms - Edens Hall. The rooms are extremely large for dorms, and very nice!!

Academic Rigor

I am in the Honors Program here, so it is a little more difficult, but honestly, classes aren't too difficult yet!

Tips for prospective students

Visit the school before you accept. I wasn't planning to coming here until I actually visited. I fell in love with it then!

In three sentences

WWU is a great school for students who love the outdoors. People here are very accepting and nice. The school is a nice size - not too big, but not too small.

Jacqui from Bellingham, WA

04/03/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Bellingham, Washington is a wonderful city!! With Mount Baker on one side and the ocean on the other, you get a taste of everything. It is a laid-back city that greatly supports green living, the arts, etc. and I am so glad to it call my home.

Food and Dining

There are so many great choices, delicious and nutritious!

Dorm Life

This is not applicable to me because I live off campus but from what I see it is very convenient and enjoyable for the students who live in the dorms on campus.

Academic Rigor

All of my classes have kept me on my toes. While none of my classes have kept me up late into the night studying (yet), they are very in depth and intriguing. Since I want to do my best in my classes and they engage me so thoroughly, I keep on top of everything and it has pushed my perspectives/ideas/knowledge/etc. to exciting limits.

Tips for prospective students

Jump right in! Some freshmen want to start off somewhat easy in order to feel out the grounds and get used to the way things work in college. They are often afraid to begin clubs, teams, etc. yet in two quarters have already gained so much experience and knowledge and I can't imagine not having joined the groups that interest me immediately.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a very beautiful campus that is filled with many intelligent students ready to learn from the incredible professors and from each other. As a senior in high school I was excited to join the WWU community and now that I am attending WWU, getting involved in everything and anything that interests me, my excitement only rises. I know for sure that WWU is the perfect school for academic and future success.

Kyle from Bellingham, WA

The recreation center is great, and the performing arts program puts on shows (music, theater, and dance) almost every evening.

Food and Dining

There's a good variety of options for dining, but nothing very healthy.

Dorm Life

I don't know, I don't live in the dorms and never have.

Academic Rigor

As a music major, my coursework is very much tailored to me as a students, so I can't really speak to this topic, but most of the coursework seems relatively easy.

Tips for prospective students

Don't expect the coursework to be extremely rigorous, but most of the professors are very insightful and you can learn a ton from them if you just listen and work hard.

In three sentences

WWU is fairly laid back for a four-year university. In 300 and 400 level courses, your professors will take a more personal approach to teaching, but not in 100 and 200 level courses. The campus is one of the most beautiful I've seen.

WWU Student

There are clubs for any kind of interest whether it be outdoor adventures or video game design to even different brewing methods for coffee and tea! Western has it all.

Bang for the buck

Western is a great value for your money, as tuition is on average $1,000 less per quarter than UW and much less than any private university.

Food and Dining

On campus food is OK. The dining hall has a lot of variety but when it comes to on-campus restaurants, you're limited to Subway, Starbucks, and a pizza place named Topio's unless you're at the Viking Union.

Dorm Life

I never lived in the dorms, so I'm not sure exactly. The Buchanan Towers (BT) were recently built and have nice suites but I can't speak for the others.

Academic Rigor

Western can be a difficult school when it comes to some classes in the Math/Sciences department, but any questions you have will be welcomed by your professors. Overall, grades are fair and are highly dependent on how much work you're willing to put forth.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is perfect in so many ways - inviting, fun, inclusive, small but not too small - the list goes on. The professors are more than willing to help with any issues during and outside of office hours and are willing to go the extra mile in general to make you feel valued. The school is great for all types, from incoming transfer students, to freshman, to graduate students looking to earn a masters.

Cassandra from Mount Vernon, WA

04/23/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Every three or four hundred feet or so, there is a blue light with an emergency button, which is nice. There is also a free service called the Green Coats who will walk you home at night at any time if you need. I believe there is also driving services on holidays like St. Patty's Day or New Years.

Greek Life

There's no Greek Life at Western.

Clubs and Activities

There's more clubs than you can even imagine, including a Clothing Optional Club...

Great for these types of students

The German Department was rated one of the top two nation wide and has a great bunch of professors who will support you in your goals throughout your entire study. I also really like the History Department for the same reason. I hear the Art program is also very good as well as the Engineering programs.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is always a Humans vs. Zombies game pretty much every quarter. So if you're into shooting other people with Nerf guns, then this is the school for you. There is also some people every quarter who bring animals to campus to help with test anxiety so don't be weirded out if you see a miniature pony on Red Square every once in a while.

Bang for the buck

Western is very affordable, but not lacking in any way as far as academics go.

What to do for fun

Explore Bellingham! It's a fun town with lots of outdoor activities. The beach is right down the road and there are several places to hike, mountain bike, walk, and even snowboard in close proximity to campus. On campus there are always fun events and clubs so there's no need to be bored.

Food and Dining

There are several vegan and vegetarian options as well as gluten free. The Fairhaven Dining hall is probably the best and has the most healthy options, however there is always standard junk food like pizza and burgers as well to suit your cravings.

Dorm Life

I never lived in the dorms, but they seem to be pretty nice based on my friends' experience. They are fairly roomy and you have a chance at getting your own room as well.

Academic Rigor

The lower level classes are very easy and do not take much effort to at least get a B. However, once you start getting into your third and fourth year at Western, you will notice that you actually have to pay attention in class and read the materials. It can really catch up to you.

Tips for prospective students

Western highly encourages its students to study abroad. Take advantage of the professors' time and help in facilitating a study abroad trip. Also, get to know your professors because they will be the ones writing letters of recommendation to future jobs or graduate school and are always happy to do it. Find a cool place to study because the computer labs can get full especially during finals week. My favorite is on the fifth floor of the library because there is a beautiful view of Bellingham Bay and it's quiet.

In three sentences

Western is a smaller college, but has a great academic reputation. The small class size makes it possible to get to know your professors on a personal level. It is also very affordable compared to many state schools.

Renee' from Edgewood, WA

There are many clubs and activities on campus. You'll find something you'll like.

Great for these types of students

Great for outdoor enthusiasts.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have Humans vs. Zombies on campus. It's really fun.

Bang for the buck

Western is cheaper than some other colleges in the area.

What to do for fun

You could go to Mallards Ice Cream, local churches, hiking, skiing, kayaking, AB Crepes, and so much more.

Food and Dining

The food can be good or bad, depending on the day.

Dorm Life

I live in Nash, which have decent size rooms.

Academic Rigor

Some classes of course are harder than others, but I have to keep ahead in my classes or I fall behind.

Tips for prospective students

Study your material early. Since we are on the quarter system, the tests are worth more because there are fewer tests. Be open to try new things and get off campus frequently because Bellingham is a great city.

In three sentences

Western has cheerful, friendly students and helpful staff. The campus is beautiful in the spring and fall. There are many things to do on campus and many outdoor activities to participate in.

Rachel from Camas, WA

05/06/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We are always notified if there is an incident on campus via text/email. And at night if you ever feel unsafe crossing campus alone, there is a number you can call and the Greencoats will send someone to escort you. Honestly though, I feel pretty safe on campus; there's always lots of lighting so no one can sneak up on me.

Greek Life

We don't have one

Clubs and Activities

I LOVE the clubs here! I am currently a part of Harry Potter and Disney clubs, and club meetings are always a fun event to interact with people at!

HvZ, humans vs. zombies; people have this game of kind of tag with nerf guns that is played twice a year and is always entertaining to watch (though I haven't played yet). Also if memory serves me correctly, Western has one of the largest sculpture gardens in the US so you see them everywhere.

Bang for the buck

It's a little more expensive than I'd like, but is definitely cheaper than lots of schools.

What to do for fun

You can wander around downtown, the Saturday market's fun to explore, lots of coffeeshops to sit down and chat with people, the bay is within walking distance from campus, and you can reach lots of different parks through the bus. Also on campus there are lots of different clubs to join, and intramurals to participate in!

Food and Dining

The dining hall provides good options (though it can get a little repetitive), and definitely have options for those who like to eat vegetarian or vegan.

Dorm Life

LOVE the dorms, especially Mathes! The community is great for meeting new people, and most of my friends here I've met in the Mathes lounge.

Academic Rigor

The subjects can be difficult if you can't understand the subject matter, but most professors are good at explaining their prospective subjects.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to speak up. Use professor's office hours; they are there for a reason. Take a weekend to wander downtown, Bellingham is beautiful.

In three sentences

A great school! Everyone is really friendly and accepting, and people are always willing to lend a helping hand. The community is very special and invigorating.

Madison from Woodinville, WA

Bellingham is full of fun and adventurous activities. You and a group of friends can go out for a bite to eat in gorgeous Bellingham and enjoy the water. Sailing is also a fun activity to partake in.

Food and Dining

Food and Dining at Western is impeccable. There are several different places to eat as well as buy snacks all throughout campus. The dining hall is a great place to meet and to get to know people.

Dorm Life

In my personal opinion, dorm life is exceptional at Western. There are several different options for everyone interested in staying on campus. In my personal opinion the Ridgeway Dorms has the best dorm life.

Academic Rigor

Western is academically rigorous because you are constantly being challenged. However, the counselors as well as the professors try their best to help and encourage you. Western has amazing academic opportunities.

Tips for prospective students

My tips for prospective students is to tour the entire campus as well as the dorms. Future students should plan to be involved with clubs and organizations on campus. Students should stay in the Ridgeway dorms their freshman year.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a well rounded and universal campus. Western accepts everyone and is extremely helpful. The Western Washington Campus is a great place for almost everyone.

Connor from Vancouver, WA

For the most part, the campus is safe. I have heard of men trying to kidnap women down in south campus.

Clubs and Activities

There are a TON of clubs, and you can even create your own!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Apparently walking around barefoot is normal.

What to do for fun

There is TONS. There is all of downtown to explore, as well as the bay. Boulevard Park is pretty awesome. You will run into some slackers along the way.

Food and Dining

The Dining Hall is disgusting. The first few weeks you will love it a lot, but after those few weeks, you will start to understand how bad of a place it is. The employees there are lazy and all they serve you is junk food basically.

Dorm Life

Depends on which dorm you are in, but overall, it is an incredible experience. You will make so many friends you won't even know what to do!

Academic Rigor

Some of the classes are really hard, seemingly impossible, and others seem like a piece of cake. Depends on the teacher and the class. Use ratemyprofessor.com a lot!!

Tips for prospective students

Expect a lot from the classes. Of course, it all depends on how smart you are and what classes you are taking.

In three sentences

WWU has a beautiful campus and area around it. The people there are very friendly. You will make so many friends.

Heidi

06/30/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

I loved to be able to go hiking and exploring in Bellingham. There are a lot of places to go around the area that you can typically get to via bus or walking or a combination of both. There's also a lot of cool little stores and food places in downtown Bellingham or in Fairhaven district.

Food and Dining

The food was alright; it wasn't amazing but it wasn't awful. The three different residential dining places on campus were all a bit different so trying each one at least once might be a good idea to see which you like the best, if you don't mind the walk. There are Subways, Starbucks, and other market places on campus for food too.

Dorm Life

I lived in a corridor style dorm building with one roommate on North Campus. Depending on where you live on campus, your experience will be different. For where I lived, there were always people who were willing to talk to you so meeting people and developing friendships was easy. Overall, I loved where I lived.

Academic Rigor

The academic work wasn't too bad. There are professors that are really strict with grading that will push you a lot more than others which I think is perfectly normal. The General University Requirement classes were easily passable if you studied and did the work needed.

Tips for prospective students

I'd say you should come look at the campus to see the vibe of it and how you feel about the location. If you're not used to it, the cloudy, rainy weather might be a major shock for you if you're not used to it, but it's definitely livable if you don't mind the skies being a bit gray, or it raining. Also, if you're planning on staying in the dorms, you should see what style and culture of forming you like before you make a decision or at least read about them online.

In three sentences

I really like Western Washington University. The size is perfect for me in that it's small enough not to feel lost amongst all the students but big enough so it's easy to meet new people. The people here tend to be pretty laid back for the majority which is great.

Alexia from Gig Harbor, WA

I noticed lots of security and felt very safe on campus. I've never heard of anything happening here.

Great for these types of students

They have a program for ASL, which I know is my best friend's prime reason for loving this school! That and their music programs, because my best friend and I both play flute. I am more interested for the arts programs, and from looking around the art rooms, I am not going to be let down.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Nothing that I noticed!

Bang for the buck

For an in-state option this school is great! Tuition is definitely affordable and other programs offer ways to help you financially if you need it.

What to do for fun

I haven't really looked around too much at potential activities, however I do think that this campus has a lot to offer for student life. It seems there is always something going on, just have to look around and get involved!

Food and Dining

As far as food service goes, I think Western Washington has one of the best I know of. I went around to all of the food service areas and was surprised to see how nice the cafeteria and the school itself was!

Dorm Life

All the students seemed extremely friendly and the dorms are surprisingly nice. The actual town is quiet and lovely, but inside the dorms things are a lot louder and more interesting!

Academic Rigor

From what I've seen the academics here are taken very seriously by staff and students alike. Personally I am very serious about school, and that is the reason this school ranks as my top choice!

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you look at all of your options before you chose any school! Make sure the campus life and academics at any school are what you are going to need to succeed in the future.

In three sentences

The campus life, from what I've seen, is lively and encourages high academic standards as well as being involved with the community. As far as food programs around campus, which my Grandma actually runs, I think they are fantastic and the campus itself is beautiful. All of the staff I have are extremely kind and helpful, only looking out for what is best for students!

Shalin from Bay Center, WA

07/12/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

The first thing I noticed when I walked onto WWU's campus was the friendly atmosphere that made you feel empowered and independent. The second thing I noticed was the amazing art that is scattered about the school. Western not only is friendly, encouraging, and beautiful, it also has many of the academic points that interest me at high levels.

Stephanie from Maple Valley, WA

07/21/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have our University Police that will come to any problems on campus. There is also the Campus Green Coats. If you ever have to walk back across campus alone and you are too scared, you can give them a call and they will escort you back to your dorm. Along with that, we have many Emergency Stations across campus where if you feel like you are being followed, or you feel like you are in an unsafe situation, you can run to one of these and get assistance from the University Police. However, most of these resources don't get used very much because the campus has a very safe feel to it.

Greek Life

There is no greek life on campus. If you are hoping to be in a sorority or fraternity, that is something that you will not find here. It has been put to a vote several times and it always gets voted down.

Clubs and Activities

There are a ton of clubs around campus. If you have a passion for something, there is a club for it. It ranges from academic clubs like Chem club, to nerdy clubs like Doctor Who and Homestuck to fun clubs like a murder mystery club and a tightrope club.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for people who are really looking to get a lot out of being at college. If you are really focused on your education, the environment, and making friends, this will be a fantastic school for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have a Rare Collections part of the library. It is hidden on the 6th floor (which most people don't realize exists) and it has a ton of rare and special books. It is a really neat place to look around.

Bang for the buck

Though it will always feel that you are paying too much money, this school really is much cheaper than many other four year universities in the state. And there are a ton of great resources and activities that go on all the time even with that fact. Overall, I feel the school does a great job with the funding that they have and the price that we pay for the school.

What to do for fun

Along with all of the activities and clubs constantly going on around campus, there are a ton of things to do around town. There is an area of town called Fairhaven where there are a ton of different little shops to go to as well as Boulevard Park to relax and goof off at. You can buy books, crafts, or even make your own piece of art at Creativity. In the downtown area, we have theaters (movies and plays), an imporv theater (where Ryan Stiles sometimes appears) and if you are 21 or over, this is where the bar an club scene is located. Also around town we have a mall where the discount movie theater is located, as well as the Value Village and Spirit Halloween store in October. There is also a location on Lake Watcom where you can rent Kayaks, sail boats, and wind surfers for really cheap.

Food and Dining

We have a lot of good food on campus. There is a Subway, Freshens smoothies, Panda express, Starbucks, and much more. We also have three all you can eat dining halls on campus where you can eat. It is cheaper for those if you get the meal plan. And our meal plans come with 150 Dining Dollars that allow you to purchase food or other necessities from he retail locations (Miller market, Subway, etc.) that most students can't live without. If you don't want to eat on campus, there are a very large amount of dining locations around Bellingham.

Dorm Life

Many people love living in the dorms. Most of the people are fun and friendly and there are a ton of activities to help you get involved if you are a little shy. The RAs are always available to help with any roommate issues, and they even give you an optional Roommate Agreement for you and your roommate to fill out to help get you guys talking about what you are comfortable with in the room. It's not quite perfect though You do tend to get people who are loud and obnoxious at bad times of the day, but the RAs are very good and nice about asking people to follow quiet hours.

Academic Rigor

Many classes here do have high standards, but if you are doing what you love, they can feel much easier. We also have a good selection of general university requirements (GURs) that are quite easy to pass and are wonderful for helping get your GPA up if you have a class that throws you a curve ball.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be scared to go out and try something new! There are a TON of different clubs and activities that go on around the campus. try as many as you can. Also, don't be scared to go to the tutoring center or your teacher's office hours. Those are all set in place to help you succeed!

In three sentences

This is a fantastic school! There are an extraordinary amount of opportunities for students to discover their passions. It is also a very environmentally friendly school.

Blake from Cosmopolis, WA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

To explore Bellingham, Canada and Western Washington.

Tips for prospective students

That it is good to look at the college as a whole and not at ever single detail.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is one of the best colleges to attend on the west coast. It has a beauty campus and is located in a perfect location. Western Washington University has many outstanding programs offered to students.

There's a lot to do on campus; the AS puts on ton of events. If you're outdoorsy, there's so much to do in Bellingham. There's always downtown and Fairhaven which is the hip part of town.

Food and Dining

It's typical dining hall food, but caters to those with dietary specifications such as vegan, lactose intolerant, etc.

Dorm Life

It's honestly luck of the draw. North Campus is a great place to live, but so is Fairhaven and the Ridge. It all depends on what type of person you are.

Academic Rigor

The classes are harder than they were in high school and well paced.

Tips for prospective students

Focus on your admission essay. If you're serious, apply earlier because the lottery for housing is done by the time of applying.

In three sentences

Western is a place for the open minded, rain seeking, adventure loving individual. Western is a community, more than anything. If you're looking for beautiful architecture, friendly people, and a sound education, this is the place for you.

Mathieu from Bellingham, WA

Extremely safe, even at night. Campus is nestled in a very nice neighborhood, far enough from the downtown as to not witness frequent riffraff or undesirables near the student body.

Greek Life

None at all. This is a huge plus for those of us looking to avoid it.

Clubs and Activities

Many fantastic choices for people of any background or interest. If there isn't a club for the activity of your choice, bring your idea to the Associated Students panel and they will fund your endeavor to add a new club.

Great for these types of students

Self-motivated, hard-working people who are generally liberal and open-minded. If you are outdoorsy, like greenery and a beautiful natural setting, willing to engage in conversation with strangers and appreciate discussion, this is the place for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Wonderful outdoor art pieces are all over campus, very nice for walking between classes having nice open spaces and something to look at. Also the view from the square next to the Viking Student Union building on campus has one of the best views of Bellingham Bay in the whole town.

Bang for the buck

This is at your discretion. If you get into a major you like and find clubs and programs suited to you, then this will be well worth the tuition. Those who choose to distance themselves from campus life may find otherwise.

What to do for fun

Outdoor activities dominate; the ocean and the rivers and the mountains all nearby make for a fantastic array of things to do on weekends. The town is also quaint and accomadating to the students attending Western, there are plenty of nice restaurants, boutiques and shops to explore in the central business district not a ten-minute walk from campus.

Food and Dining

Nothing special, the food can get old if you eat on campus every day, but it isn't high school cafeteria food either. There is a Subway, Starbucks and Panda Express on campus as well for non-dining food options. Bellingham also has many restaurants to choose from if out on the town.

Dorm Life

I am a transfer student so unfortunately I have no background with the dorms at WWU, though through friends I have heard there is a great variety of housing options, some newer and nicer than others, but in all I have been told dorms are an essential rite of passage for freshmen, and many lasting friendships are forged in that first year.

Academic Rigor

This is completely arbitrary; you get what you put in at Western. There are classes of every difficulty in every field; you determine the pace and rigor at which you complete your work. There are easy paths for those not seeking a challenge, or there are plenty of hard ways to go as well, for those who are ready for the next level.

Tips for prospective students

Bring your motivation. It is very easy to be distracted the first couple years at university, so be sure to focus and maintain your priorities; the social options will be there regardless, so do not fall victim to the abundance of good times. This school does have something for everyone, it is up to you to find and engage in the things that interest you, this is an independent endeavor that will yield wonderful networking opportunities through school clubs and activities.

In three sentences

A wonderful, woodsy school located in the town of Bellingham, Washington, which has a very urban feel for such a small place. Western is a medium-sized school with a great diversity of students and academic options. This university runs on the enthusiasm and diverse tastes of its student body, and their motivation to imagine and innovate new possibilities.

Abby from Grand Junction, CO

Western has it's own police and has emergency blue boxes all over campus in case of an emergency.

Greek Life

Western does not have a greek life. I'm indifferent about that but part of me would like to be part of a sorority.

Clubs and Activities

Western has a club for literally everything and if there isn't a club for something you're interested in then all you need is five people and you can start your own club. The only beef I have with Western's sports is we don't have a football team.

Great for these types of students

If you love the outdoors or your an artsy type you will fit right in.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Western is really awesome about putting on events for the whole campus. Some may seem kind of silly but it's always good to at least check them out.

What to do for fun

Downtown Bellingham is an awesome place to explore. We don't have a lot of chain restaurants and so there are lots of awesome local places to eat. Of course you can always go kayaking or rent a cabin with a bunch of your friends for the weekend.

Food and Dining

Dining hall food can get old really fast so mix it up and try to be creative.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is hard to adjust to but you just have to make the most of it and be nice to your roommate since you'll be living with them for the rest of the year.

Tips for prospective students

I'm from out of state and came from a sunny city. If you are like me then you're going to have to get use to the rain and cold days pretty fast. Also, don't bring an umbrella because no one uses them. Just get a really good rain jacket with a hood. Also, look up your classes before hand and actually go to class every day and be on time. Stay on top of your homework and manage your time well. There is plenty of time to do everything.

In three sentences

If I were to describe Western like a person you would immediately notice it for it's looks. Western has such a gorgeous campus in a gorgeous city. But once you actually get to know this person you realize that Western has so much to offer and is a great place to attend college.

Rachael from Woodinville, WA

There are always TONS of events going on. Keep an eye on the bulletin boards for information. Great place to meet people too.

Food and Dining

You can buy a meal plan at WWU, where you spend one meal per entry to the dining hall. Food is nothing special, mediocre cafeteria food. Gotta love the frozen yogurt though.

Dorm Life

I've never lived in the dorms, but have talked to people who have. Small and crowded seems to be the consensus.

Academic Rigor

Classes are challenging but manageable. Some majors are far more rigorous than others, so research what program you'll be going in to and talk to some students who are already in the program you're interested in. Never underestimate the advice of your peers!

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Everyone is quite nice, and are happy to help out. Also, learn about the steam whistle before your first classes start. It can be pretty scary if you're near it when they let it shriek.

In three sentences

WWU is a great university. Everyone is so nice, and most professors are interested in you succeeding. The campus is beautiful, and there's a great community feel.

Kendra from East Wenatchee, WA

If you can't find a club that suites you on campus, there is always the outdoors center and a huge variety of activities off campus.

Food and Dining

Western does a great job at providing students with a wide variety of food options such as vegan and gluten free. Sometimes they over complicate their food options though and it's always a surprise.

Dorm Life

I lived on The Ridge my first year at Western, and it was very hard to adapt at times. The ridge is not very community based compared to North campus. It is a gamble with who you are placed with on each floor. With that being said, once I adjusted and got to know more people, my living situation greatly increased.

Academic Rigor

I am very pleased with Western and its ability to push me as a student.

Tips for prospective students

Western Washington does not have a Greek system, nor does it have a football team. Therefore, students who are seeking a strong school spirit atmosphere should become active in Western's basketball team or outdoor's club. It is somewhat hard for new students to connect with others as well since there is no Greek system.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a very welcoming and diverse campus and community. It has much to offer its students through a variety of clubs, academics, and recreational activities. It's community vibe makes it an excellent school to consider!

Caley from Buffalo, WY

11/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Super safe! There are blue emergency buttons everywhere. There also is a texting service provided by WWU that sends out emergency alerts. Also if by yourself you can call the 'green' coats whose job is specifically to escort you back home if you need them to.

Greek Life

None

Clubs and Activities

There is over 200+ clubs ranging from sports to how to survive a zombie apocalypse club. There are also academic major clubs which can be super useful when in need of advice, or tutoring help.

Great for these types of students

Outdoorsy, out going, yet ready to put you nose to the grind stone kind of people. WWU isn't emphasized on their sports, but school spirit is a must, and it replaces the division II status.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Zombie vs Humans. For a week at the beginning of the school year, the whole school participates in zombie vs humans (if you want). People are running all over the place trying to not get killed by the zombies (represented by a orange bandanna). The humans can kill the zombies with nerf guns (provided). Whoever is the last one standing wins.

Bang for the buck

I'm getting exactly what I'm paying for. My education is top notch, free laundry, bus system, and the people are great. They have great facilities for students, you have access to everything you could need, you just have to look.

What to do for fun

Downtown is amazing, there is super good food, and coffee shops. Don't forget to bring your hiking boots, and bike, there are trails everywhere!

Food and Dining

If you have food allergies they are great, but only if you want the same meal everyday. Breakfast is the best meal to go.

Dorm Life

I live on the Ridge which is smaller dorm buildings, more like a community. They are in a perfect location (bus stop right out front), rec center is close, cafeteria is close, and my classes are close.

Academic Rigor

I am a bio/anth major so my classes are suppose to be challenging. If you put in the time the results will reflect your effort. The professors and tutoring center are super helpful and reliable.

Tips for prospective students

Explore Bellingham! Get involved with any of the 200+ clubs. Make use of the bus system, it's 100% dedicated to students (and you ride for free)!

In three sentences

I love the location, it's gorgeous all year round. Everyone is super friendly, and helpful. My education is everything I was hoping for.

Charmed

Arboretum Boulevard Park Fairhaven Mt. Baker Downtown Bham So many activities you just have to find them

Food and Dining

It gets boring having the same thing...

Dorm Life

The dorm life comes in three different types. North campus for students not so interested in socializing and only interested in classes. The ridgeway is the happy medium to socialize and get your school work down. Fair haven you can chill on your own and do as you please

Academic Rigor

Great Programs with Great Professors and Advisors

Tips for prospective students

WWU can be a let down weather wise, but that just gives you more time to focus on school work. Please focus on school work, isn't that why you went to college? Education is important, and you're paying for it. Work hard

In three sentences

WWU is a wonderful school to come and find your passion be it any career path. Opportunities are available to all types of students interested. It's the perfect size for the perfect of students

Seattle, WA

11/17/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Greek Life

doesn't have sororities or fraternities

Dorm Life

dorms are small and not extra nice but provide a very nice community for students, so after living in a dorm for their first year most students rent very nice and large houses (with room mates of corse) for a very reasonable price walking distance from campus. so even though they're not technically living on campus its a very residential school.

Emily from Valencia, CA

12/06/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety here at WWU is phenomenal. Western has it's own police that patrol the campus thoroughly 24/7. There is also a student force called Green Coats that will open buildings for students, or escort students wherever they need to go, should a student ever be wary about walking alone. There are fog lights strategically placed all over campus, and campus is very well lit otherwise. I have personally never felt unsafe on Western's campus at any time of day or night.

Greek Life

There is no greek life on campus, which I believe is one of the perks of coming to Western. There is a larger focus on academics.

Clubs and Activities

WWU boasts over 250 different clubs and the activities these clubs put on. Ranging from academics, to sports clubs or clubs that compete against other schools, there is something for everyone looking for a relatively easy way to make friends. There are even clubs for video games, and getting together to practice karate on the lawns across campus. The Outdoors Center takes students on ski trips to the local Mt. Baker once the ski-season officially begins, and as aforementioned it will help you with any other outdoor activity you may way to do, even helping you get certified in rock climbing!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Since the impending holiday season is looming over every student's head as they busily study for finals, I will tell you about the two traditions here during the dead week of fall quarter. First off, there is a huge tree on the north side of campus, and at the beginning of dead week, it is draped in blue and white lights from top to bottom. Every evening, the gigantic festive tree is a beacon from across the campus. Another tradition at Western is that during dead week, if you buy something on campus before noon, you get a receipt that gets you one dollar off of any drink you order after 2 pm. This is great, because fall quarter has the best specialty drink on campus: the Cup of Love, which is half Chai Tea Latte, and half Eggnog Latte.

What to do for fun

Western is a very outdoorsy school. We have an outdoors center from which you can learn about hikes and winter activities available. You can also rent camping equipment and learn how to fix up your bike. In our downtown areas, there are several thrift shops and goofy stores to explore while you lick and ice cream cone from Mallards Ice Cream. You can walk to Boulevard Park and sip on a Wood's coffee while you watch the sunset. The possibilities for activities around campus and on campus are endless. If you don't want to leave campus, there are many clubs who host activities. In the fall, feel free to attend the Yule Ball in Harry Potter costume. There is a Winter Formal you can attend, and several concerts on campus.

Food and Dining

There are three main dining areas on campus for meal plans and actual full meals. If that is not your thing, there are also several little markets and coffee stands all around campus, a smoothie stand, a bagelry, a Starbucks, a Panda Express, and two Subways. There is never a want for food on this campus, that's for sure.

Dorm Life

There are a few different options when it comes to dorm life, which is wonderful because of the wide array of students attending Western. There is hall living, where a huge building is home to up to 600 residents. Another option is like the hall living option, except it is outdoor, so the hallway is exposed to the elements. These are suite style, with two rooms sharing a bathroom. There is another form of suite style on campus that is found in the Ridgeway. This type of from life is stack style, where the suite style rooms are stacked instead of in hallway form. Where ever you chose to live on campus, meeting people is easy and there are plenty of activities.

Academic Rigor

Academia here at Western is what you make of it. The resources are all within reasonable reach to help students succeed. We have a Tutoring Center, a Math Center, and a Writing Center, for starters. There are clubs on campus for every Major, which can be good tools for classes. And the library is huge, another wonderful resource available to all students.

Tips for prospective students

Know that Western is a very open and accepting campus. We publicly express our support for safe sex, and we like to show support for our LGBT community on campus. Many people don't realize this, and then question our gender-neutral phrases and unabashed openness. College isn't as scary as it seems, and the student body is very helpful to anyone who needs it, as are the professors. To quote Albus Dumbledore, Help will always be given at [Western] to those who need it.].

In three sentences

Western is a place of acceptance. We are a very open community, large enough that you don't feel trapped, small enough that you don't feel lost in the crowd. Professors actually care about their students, and try to learn everyone's name, which is fantastic for future references.

Fairhaven is the hipster part of campus. Lots of slackliners near Old Main. Underground coffehouse is a great place to see small bands.

Bang for the buck

I am getting the full college experience (minus the greek system) for less than the school that was my first choice. I don't know much about how tuition compares, but I feel like this school has a fitting tuition.

OK variety and always a vegetarian option. Seems very fluffy, and definitely took about a week for my stomach to get used to. Different dining halls seem to have different qualities.

Dorm Life

Amazing community feel. RA's are very helpful. Location of dorms is great, good seclusion from campus but also a very short walk from most classes. Lots of variety in types of rooms and living spaces. Great atmosphere

Academic Rigor

Depends on classes. Putting in work everyday will assure good grades. Material is challenging enough so that the classes are not boring, but options for more challenging classes are available.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared for the wet and cold if you're not from around here. Start your first year with classes that you're comfortable, because there's a lot of adjusting to do. Ger familiar with the town and people around you.

In three sentences

Great learning atmosphere. Intimate campus without sacrificing the traditional feel. Amazing community of people.

Alvo from Seattle, WA

Western has a shuttle bus that runs 10pm to 3am. It runs around campus and through downtown. They also have security that will escort you around campus at night if you call them.

Greek Life

NO Greek life!!! I love that Western doesn't have this and so is the student body.

Clubs and Activities

Lots to become apart of.

Bang for the buck

Western is probably the best option among 4 year universities by cost. Close to big cities, Vancouver, BC and Seattle. Also, cost of living is affordable.

What to do for fun

Bellingham is a great community. Defiantly for people who like to be out doors. Biking, skiing/snowboarding, rock climbing, rowing etc..

Food and Dining

Personally, I don't like dinning halls. Bellingham has some fun places to eat, Mexican, Indian, Thai, pizza and burgers!

Dorm Life

Dorms suck. They're expensive, especially for what you get. But that goes for pretty much any dorm. Western has Birnam wood, which is a pretty good option. Probably cheaper than renting a room (but you share) and you get an apartment.

Academic Rigor

Completing your GUR's at Western is an opportunity that will have some easy classes and challenging ones if you choose them.

Morgan

01/02/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Crime on campus is extremely low. There are several services at students disposal if they ever feel threatened, including emergency phones all across campus, and an escort service if you don't want to walk home alone.

Greek Life

Western does not have any sororities or fraternities.

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs that cover just about any hobby or activity. Seriously. Brewing Club is a group of students that meet once a week to drink tea, coffee, or some other beverage and talk. There are also loads of academic clubs, including a neuroscience club which was rated #1 academic club in the Pacific northwest last year.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs. Zombies is basically a giant game of tag that happens every year. Most people start out as humans, and the goal is to survive one week without being turned into a zombie. Zombies are loaded with nerf guns and if you get hit, you become undead.

Bang for the buck

Western is very affordable, around $15000 for in-state students. It's close to twice that for out of state, but they also have great financial aid. I'm from California, and more than half of my tuition was covered in scholarships and grants from Western.

What to do for fun

Bellingham as a town is really outdoor-sy. Surrounded by mountains and forest, there is plenty of skiing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, and rock climbing to be found. The Arboretum is a giant hill right behind the campus with lots of trails and places to explore. Downtown Bellingham is a short walk from campus and has several shops and stores to check out. The public transportation is excellent, and you can get basically anywhere in the city or surrounding counties by bus. There are also some great places around Western to just hang out with friends and play games.

Food and Dining

Before actually getting to Western, I was a little nervous about the food. I'd heard some horror stories about the cafeteria food at some college campuses, and I didn't want a repeat of the trashy food in high school. I was thrilled to learn I had absolutely nothing to worry about. Western is affiliated with an organic and healthy foods distributor, and meals are fantastic! The main dining hall has four stations, two which offer something new and delicious every day, one for freshly made sandwiches, and one for pizza/hamburgers, etc. There is also a full time salad and fruit bar. Foods are labeled as vegetarian, gluten free, or vegan. If dining halls aren't your thing, though, there are several cheap restaurants and stores very close to the campus that are popular among students.

Dorm Life

Most people are really friendly, it's easy to jump in with a group you've never met and hang out. Floors hold all sorts of different activities, including decoration parties (for holidays), movie nights, and late night ice cream excursions. There are also dances and socials every month. Every building develops a special sense of community. It's like having a second family. Heavy partying is not an issue for most dorms. During schools nights and finals week people are generally respectful and go to bed at a reasonable time.

Academic Rigor

Difficulty of coursework is entirely dependent on your classes and major, but even the simpler classes require a fair amount of effort. If you show that you're putting forth effort and try to make connections with professors, there is a good chance of success. Attending classes and regularly doing homework is a must, though.

Tips for prospective students

Western may not have it all, but it comes pretty close. It has over 150 majors and minors, and every student is given an adviser to help plan schedules, give academic advice, or just chat. The majority of classes, even the required general courses, are under 50 students. Professors really care about students and go out of their way to be available for help. In addition to great academics, there are hundreds of clubs and extracurricular activities for students to partake in. Music, sports, movies, food, politics, whatever your interests are, there is sure to be a group to connect with. We even have a quidditch team! Located in Bellingham, a medium sized city, there are plenty of things to do and places to go. Not to mention the gorgeous landscape, surrounded by forests, mountains, and ocean. Western isn't just a place to learn, its a place to live.

In three sentences

Western is dedicated to the success of their students. It offers the quality of an Ivy League education without the giant class sizes or the high tuition. They have a wide variety of majors and minors, and every program emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education.

Kaitlin from Burbank, WA

02/01/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are campus police roaming about all the time and there are these stations located around campus as intervals, so if you're being chased or something, you can hit these buttons as you go by and campus security can track your movement and find you. Also, there is a number you can call for security to come get you and escort you across campus if you are alone and don't want to walk in the dark and that sort of thing. They're really awesome.

Greek Life

Essentially non-existent as far as I can tell.

Clubs and Activities

There are loads of clubs, but you have to really want to to get anything done in them.

Great for these types of students

Anyone who enjoys the outdoors, but it's great for people like me, who don't go outside a lot, as well. NOTE: If you have any sort of seasonal affective disorder, this is not the place for you. It rains a lot, and during the fall/winter/early spring we rarely see the sun.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's this statue of a man and a cougar...you'll find out.

Bang for the buck

You'll get a pretty good education, but loans. So many loans.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of outdoor activities here. Lots of hiking and skiiing/snowboarding (in season) and biking. There are also a lot of musical events.

Food and Dining

Depends on which dining hall you go to, and also what year it is. Last year, Fairhaven was the best overall, the Ridge for latenight, and Viking Commons was generally ok. This year, the Ridge is best as far as crowds go, the Viking Commons has the best food, and Fairhaven completely sucks.

Dorm Life

My dorm was really awesome. All the people on my floor were really fun and cool, and my R.A. was pretty rad as well.

Academic Rigor

100 level classes are fairly easy, as you would expect, and they go up in difficulty the higher you get. Taking all 400 levels in one quarter is only a good idea if you know you can handle the workload.

Tips for prospective students

Don't slack off in your classes. The professors notice, so if you're hoping for letters of recommendation or any sort of leniency in your grade, work hard. Even if you don't do well, they will notice if you're trying. UTILIZE THEIR OFFICE HOURS.

In three sentences

The students and professors are very friendly. The application process for most things is fairly straight forward and understandable. The campus is really beautiful.

Dylan from Everson, WA

03/16/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

In the gym there's weights, items available for renting (basketballs, mats, tools, etc.), rock climbing center, and a swimming pool. Not to mention plenty of extra recreational groups/activities (yoga, etc.) to explore. Great, large, well kept track and field as well. If the gym is boring, the downtown area and bay-side are only a half hour walk away from campus.

Food and Dining

Variety of places to eat across campus, most with acceptable food. Fans of the Bagelry in downtown Bellingham will also enjoy Zoe's Bookside Bagels in the library, with a wide variety of bagels and condiments to choose from. The main cafeteria has a great scenic view of Bellingham Bay.

Dorm Life

No comment, have never lived in the dorms.

Academic Rigor

So far I've had several teachers in Political Science, English, and Psychology that offered great challenges in class. The majority of my teachers have also been available for aid at discretion whenever I had difficulty with school work or did not fully understand concepts.

Tips for prospective students

Go to class, focus on the lectures, and do the readings. Even completely incompetent freshman level teachers can be overridden by studying the book.

In three sentences

Close, easy to navigate through, with plenty of extracurricular activities available for attending students including my favorite recreational area, the fitness area. Each of my higher level teachers offered great challenges and plenty of help with completing work effectively. The student community is fairly diverse, many people are friendly, and there's also plenty of hot spots to check out nearby downtown.

Anonymous

We have had a few reports this year of men flashing themselves to local houses rented by mostly female students, but for the most part Western is very safe and low-key.

Greek Life

There is no Greek system here.

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs available to all students and joining is very easy. The Associated Student Body, or AS, puts on many events and is good at keeping the students updated about whats happening around campus.

Great for these types of students

Western is extremely laid back and perfect for students who are not into the Greek life and want a college experience unlike the typical Hollywood portrayal. The students are diverse and unique, all very expressive with their style and proactive interests. If you are looking for heavy school spirit and lots of fun sorts games, this school isn't for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year at the beginning of the year an undie run is hosted. This is where students all put on their undergarments and do a campus run, it is also the only time you are allowed to jump into the fountain in Red Square.

Bang for the buck

Western is pretty reasonable compared to other state schools, but it is still overpriced and hard to pay for. As with any college bound student, after my first year at a university, if there was one piece of advice I could offer, it would be to attend a community college for two years and then transfer. All universities have mandatory classes that all students must take, unrelated to your major, and paying for them at a larger school is way more expensive when you could take the same classes at a community college.

Food and Dining

The dining hall is pretty good, nothing special, but paying for it is rather pricey. If you live on campus, you have to have a meal plan, and even the cheapest is expensive. Here we have a buffet style dining hall, where you swipe your card once, removing one of your meals from the plan, and while you are still in the hall you can eat as much as you want. This is nice compared to other schools I have been to in that you can leave the hall full, rather than wanting more than just a tiny, overpriced meal.

Dorm Life

I have been living in the least social dorms, Higginson, which has been rather dull. The advantage we have is that my roommate and I share a bathroom with only two other girls, therefore we don't have to walk don the hall in our towel, but it also takes away from the social aspect in that you come in contact with your neighbors much less often.

Academic Rigor

So far, I have yet to encounter an extremely difficult class. That being said, I have taken mostly the mandatory classes and have not entered into any of the classes for my major. For his, I am unable to say quite how rigorous it is here. Although, be prepared, college is most definatley more challenging than high school.

Kathryn from Lakewood, WA

04/07/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

There are three dining halls on campus, Fairhaven Commons, Ridge Commons, and Viking Commons. The Viking Commons is the busiest dining hall because it is right near the middle of campus and serves some of the best lunch. The Ridge Commons is on The Ridge and doesn't always have the best food, but sometimes it surprises you and you have a fantastic meal! Fairhaven Commons are known to have the best food on campus and be the most acceptable to students who have food allergies and/or are gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian. There are also multiple small stores on campus which sell food, snacks, and coffee! The soups at these stores are some of the best soups I've ever had! They have really good coffee, also.

Dorm Life

There are three types of dorms at Western, The Ridge, North Campus, and Fairhaven. The Ridge is located up in the trees a little bit above campus and would be known as the party dorms. There are different types of dorms on the ridge. Beta and Gamma are suite-style dorms (4 rooms all sharing one bathroom) and Kappa, Omega, Sigma, and Highland Hall are all hall style dorms. Living on the ridge gives you a little bit of a workout because you have to walk up hills to get back to your room usually. North Campus consists of five dorms, Mathes, Nash, and Higginson, Edens Hall, and Edens North. Edens Hall is the honors dorms for students who are admitted for honors classes and all four of the other dorms are hall style. Those who live on North Campus are very close to campus and say they have a very close connection with everyone on their floor and everyone they live close too. Fairhaven is on south campus and completely immersed in trees and wilderness. It is a slightly far walk from campus but those who live there say they love it and most buildings are a mixture of hall style and suite-style dorms. Some refer to this part of campus as hippie.

Academic Rigor

Dependent on what classes you take, the difficulty level can vary. Most first year (level 100) classes will be fairly straightforward and easy to complete with a passing grade (C or higher). Also the difficulty of the classes depends on what type of class it is. A math class may be harder than an english class, while a history class may be easier than a science class. It also depends on what you like, if you enjoy math and science the struggle you may have to face passing those classes may be worth it. My advice is to take classes that look interesting to you and that ignite your curiosity.

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a relaxing environment with professors who want you to succeed. The outdoors are a big part of Western's appearance and mean a lot to many people who teach and study here. The campus is small enough to get to where you need to go quickly enough, but not so big that your lecture halls consist of 200+ students.

Carissa from Renton, WA

04/08/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There is a program called green coats that will walk you from anywhere on campus to anywhere on campus. They are super nice and don't mind doing it because its their job. The city is one of the safest, I actually don't even mind going out at night and I was that kid that didn't like to take the garbage out after dark at my house. I think it stems from being the 12th happiest city in the nation

Greek Life

No grrek life here either! WOO HOO!

Great for these types of students

This is the best place for the type of student that doesn't mind learning from the book. This isn't high school where the teacher just wanted you to copy what was on the board; You have to do a bit more than that and have to be able to go at least a level deeper into what you are learning.

What to do for fun

I play catch with friends and go to other dorms for fun. I did go to volleyball and basketball games while they were playing. Don't forget that this school doesn't have a football team! It does mean that we focus on the smaller sports though.

Food and Dining

There are days when the food is the best I have ever tasted and some days where I wish I wouldn't have wasted my time by going to the hall. Pizza, burgers and fries, the salad bar, and cereal is always there for you though. Just be sure to have something to snack on when you decide that dining hall food isnt for you.

Dorm Life

I live in Kappa currently, and I love it. I am close enough to campus to be anywhere in less than 10 minutes walking. The Resident Advisers (RA's) keep up with how you are doing academically as well as emotionally. Mine is there for me whenever I need him. My roommate and I talked about what we wanted from each other at the beginning of the year and haven't had problems since.

Academic Rigor

There are classes that will be difficult because of the teacher, because of the subject or both. Learn what your teacher expects immediately because the easiest class can become the hardest if you do not know how to give the teacher what they want. The teachers here aren't usually difficult though. They are very happy to talk to students during office hours and are usually so exited about their subject that its hard to not fall victim to the excitement.

Tips for prospective students

Try to figure out what subject you want to major in early. Some of the required classes you take for your major also cover your university required subjects. Do not room with your friends! Rooming with a friend from high school doesn't help you branch out to make new friends. You also don't have a fresh start, your friend will always bring up those high school memories and college will not be college, it will be a continuation of high school and we do not want that! Make sure you make a friend in every single class. It helps when you miss class to have someone who you can get notes from, and believe me, you will miss class. Find a study place that is right for you and make sure to find another if you start to not like that one. You are allowed to change your habits to make sure that you are productive. Be proud that you could recognize it, but solve the problem.

In three sentences

WWU allows you to be who you are, even when you don't who that is just yet. It is a very open-minded community that accepts everyone, even those who we would consider quirky. It is easy to become eco friendly here

Dessa from Bellingham, WA

Definitely buy textbooks online instead of the book store, they are about 50% the cost. Also, some classes are more worth taking than others, I would do your research.

Food and Dining

Many choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night. You will never go hungry.

Dorm Life

Depends on the dorms. Edens Hall has beautiful suite-style dorms in a quieter setting than the Ridge, communal dorms in a more extroverted environment. Definitely live on campus at least one quarter just for the experience.

Academic Rigor

It depends what classes you are taking, how many credits you have that quarter, and who your professors are.

Tips for prospective students

Go on a tour, you learn so many different things about how the university works, what all is there, and experiences from current students, which can be the most valuable tool when deciding where to attend college. If you are looking to join a club, go to the info fair at the beginning of the year to find something to fir your personality.

In three sentences

A beautiful campus with wonderful faculty who are really interested in seeing their students succeed. Western and Bellingham have things for every type of student: sporty, indoorsy, extrovert, introvert, you name it.

Jeni from Tacoma, WA

It is a very safe campus and i feel safe even walking around campus at night, there are a lot of lights and plenty of emergency telephones if you need help

Greek Life

none

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of activities you can do like intermearal sports or clubs like the Disney and harry potter club, or even be on the quiditch team, or play in the zombie vs humans stuff, there are activities for just about anyone

Great for these types of students

outdoorsy, wanting to be teachers, hipsters, it's a great school for just about anyone

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

there is a cool arboretum that is fun to walk through and see nature,

Bang for the buck

I think it's worth the money, I feel like i am getting a good education and meeting so many new friends

What to do for fun

I like to sit in the sun and take in all the beauty around me, or go sit in the underground coffee house and read or meet new people

Food and Dining

The dinning hall food is okay, but they have great other options on campus that are great like panda express, subways and pizza, and i love the starbucks

Dorm Life

I love the dorms, they are great to find new friends and be apart of a community, some rooms can be kinda small but that's normal, defintley recommend to live on campus your first year

Academic Rigor

The classes are great and some can be kinda challenging but the professors are willing to help and it you put in the time and effort you will do great

Tips for prospective students

Definitely check it out to see if you like it, it's a great school but you definitely need to make sure it's the right place for you

Jennifer from Mukilteo, WA

05/12/2014

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

A lot of women get attacked at Western. Men have been known to grab girls at the bus stops and on their way home. I know a young girl who was hit by a car in front of many witnesses, and no one came forward to help her. Many incidents, like hers, happen at Western every year. I encourage prospective students to be very aware and to protect themselves.

Greek Life

There is no Greek life.

Clubs and Activities

There are few, but they expect a definite time commitment.

Great for these types of students

Anyone who would like to go into the specific programs at Western. I do not encourage those who feel lonely or isolated because it will only make it worse.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The outside artwork is fantastic at Western. The structural being of these pieces can be seen all over campus and are a great place to go to read.

Bang for the buck

Do not pay for this school. In my opinion, Western is backsliding academically and socially. They had a riot due to drunk and disorderly conduct that caused a lot of damage to the Bellingham community. I believe that a lot of Western students forget that Bellingham is a community outside of the school and needs to be respected. I left Western by choice due to inflated costs and lack of benefit for the money I spent.

What to do for fun

Downtown Bellingham is fantastic, however, dangerous at night. Always travel in pairs and look out for one another. I have two tattoos from a shop in downtown Bellingham that have changed my life. I had more fun and experienced much more downtown, rather than at school.

Food and Dining

The food and dining options at Western were poor and the food was terrible. For the price of a meal plan at Western, I wish that I had simply gone to the grocery store instead, better quality for less money.

Dorm Life

Because of Western's lack of community, a lot of suicides happen on and off campus. I, personally, lost a friend at Western after he attempted to seek therapy from one of the centers on campus. There is a definite sense of isolation at Western, especially in the dorms. The dorms are old, and they are in poor maintained condition. The student janitors do not take their job seriously, so the dorms continue to be dirty year after year.

Academic Rigor

The classes at Western are not very difficult. The difficult part is to find a professor that is willing to teach and stand by their students. Many of the professors I had at Western were passionate about their subjects, but not about assisting their students.

Tips for prospective students

Future students should contemplate why they would choose Western. I have been witness to a lot of sad instances at Western because of a lack of community. I would encourage others to apply to Western Washington University for their programs, but not to apply for a sense of community. Many other colleges have a better sense of a unified student body.

In three sentences

I believe that Western has no more diversity to offer. Western has brilliant professors, however, they leave due to low pay. In my experience, Western Washington University has become more involved in profit, instead of education.

There are a lot of strange sculptures and art pieces. But they kind of add uniqueness to the campus. The north campus dinning hall overlooks Bellingham Bay and is absolutely beautiful at sunset.

What to do for fun

Downtown Bellingham is really fun, and tuition comes with a bus pass so its really easy to get around! The underground coffee house is really fun as well. They have open mic night every week.

Tips for prospective students

Apply early!!! And always go to class, even when you don't want to.

In three sentences

Classes are very interesting and really expand your horizons. The housing department is horrible and causes a lot of problems for anyone who deals with them. Some of the people there are bizarre, but most everyone is very accepting.

Robin Burlew from Marysville, WA

There are many ways to contact the campus police fast and it generally does not feel unsafe.

Greek Life

No Greek Life.

What to do for fun

I tend to surf the web or take the bus down to the beach and kick rocks. I enjoy hanging out with my friends on or off campus.

Food and Dining

There is not very much variation and there are some consistent dishes. If you're looking for vegan options you might want to dine off campus.

Dorm Life

The dorms are usually loud and busy, there are quite hours but they are late and don't accommodate for people who study regularly. Otherwise it's a friendly atmosphere and plenty of great people.

Academic Rigor

The professors will allow very little room to budge, so study and do your homework. Few professors give you chances to redo anything or reschedule or do extra work, you have to be on top of your studies.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for as many scholarships as you can and keep studying. Maintaining a good GPA will show effort to scholarships you apply to and to the school.

In three sentences

WWU has a very active student body with many events happening on-campus and off-campus. The living on campus is fair while the dining is okay. Cost of schooling is moderate compared to many other 4-year schools.

Stirling from Bowie, MD

I have never felt unsafe on campus. I feel assured about the availability and reliability of the campus police.

Greek Life

None.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs, but I always hear about the same few. Anyway, there is always something happening on-campus and if you take it upon yourself to search for a club you like you're guaranteed to find something interesting.

Great for these types of students

Outdoorsy, into social and/or environmental activism

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are funny sculptures all over campus which I have yet to find someone who can explain.

Bang for the buck

I'm from out-of-state. There is no bang and no buck.

What to do for fun

I like downtown a lot. Lots of unique, local businesses which probably don't impress kids from Portland, but I am used to being surrounded by only giant franchises so I am absolutely ecstatic to go downtown and see all the small shops and restaurants and know that I'm supporting the local economy with my purchases. There is a pretty cool film scene--the Pickford is a neat place to watch independents. There are some neat museums and exhibits, an aquatic center, lots of parks. It's also very popular for students to go hiking and skiing and other outdoor sports on the weekends.

Food and Dining

I appreciate that Dining Services takes their health initiative very seriously and trust the quality of the food served. Most of the time there would be a decent selection of balanced meals, although it was a bummer if they didn't appeal to my personal taste. Salad bar was pretty good. The worst thing was that a few times they did run out of food but that does not happen often, and I know from working in the dining hall that the staff are trained to make safety and quality customer service their top priorities.

Dorm Life

Last year I lived in the Fairhaven dorms, and overall it was a decent experience. I appreciated that there was an initiative to create a sense of community--events were held pretty frequently, and people often hung out in central locations. The environment was open and comfortable. Bathrooms get cleaned for you as long as you clean up your stuff, dorm rooms were clean and safe, the hot water and heat situation was much better than I have now off-campus (you could pretty much count on it), wifi was spotty. The thing I miss most is FREE LAUNDRY.

Academic Rigor

My classes thus far have not been too challenging--mostly it's about what I was used to from taking AP courses in high school. Some are easier than others though, and I don't think it's fair to try and rate the whole university for its academic rigor. I think the credit requirements are perfectly fair... You can tell ahead of time if a class is going to be hard based on its content and by looking at reviews of the professor.

Tips for prospective students

Come here expecting do work, as you should with any long-term goals. There are many resources here to do just about anything you desire, or just get help with your homework. Take it upon yourself to explore and utilize the opportunities around you.

In three sentences

I love the location for a lot of reasons (downtown is awesome, surrounding nature is awesome), but I hate the weather. The best thing about the service Western has provided me with so far is that the administrators and staff are all reliable and compassionate. In a nutshell my biggest complaint is that the school is so big.

Allison from Salem, OR

10/15/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I feel safe on campus.

What to do for fun

Bellingham has a lot of cute coffee shops to go to and a lot of activities to participate in. One thing Western has is the Dead Parrot's Society. They are the school improve team and they have hilarious shows quite often.

Food and Dining

The food is sometimes really good and sometimes kind of bad but there is always at least one good thing to eat.

Dorm Life

Some of the dorms are small but there are a variety of places to live with different locations and styles. The RAs are helpful and happy to be there. Overall, the dorm experience is worth experiencing at least once.

Academic Rigor

The classes are not too hard but they are definitely not easy. Depending on the subject and the level of the class it can be a great challenge, but overall the classes are great.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus. It is a great place and was the deciding factor for me once I had visited.

In three sentences

Western is a very welcoming place. The atmosphere is wonderful and the scenery is beautiful. It is a great place to grow as a student and as a person.

Sebastian from Bothell, WA

10/15/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

This campus is very safe. There are lights everywhere, call centers, and even security and campus police you can call if you ever just want an escort at night. In nearly every bathroom is a poster about wellness, safety, and people to call if you ever need help.

Greek Life

There is no Greek Life at Western.

Clubs and Activities

There are over 200 clubs on campus, and if you ever can't find a club for what you want, it's super easy to create a new one. There's even clubs like Humans vs. Zombies, which held an event today across campus where Humans were running from Zombies in between classes. It looked fun!

Great for these types of students

Western is great for environmentally conscious students, party students, outdoorsy students, and everyone in between. There's literally something for everyone here.

Bang for the buck

Western is just the best, hands down, for college in my opinion. It's close to Seattle, so you're just an hour away from anything you could want to do in Seattle, but without the Seattle prices. Renting places off campus is cheap, and most of the food around here is pretty cheap too. It's a college town, and the local businesses are AMAZING about giving student discounts.

What to do for fun

Literally, anything you can think of. If you're an outdoorsy type, not only is Bellingham a great place to go hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking, but there's a center on campus that holds outdoor events where you can rent kayaks, or any sort of sport equipment, for ridiculously cheap. Literally, less than 5 bucks to rent a kayak for a day. There's also a ton of music events always going on, and at the bigger concerts, WWU students get super discounts on tickets. I've been going to all the campus events whenever I get bored, and they're usually pretty fun.

Food and Dining

I heard a lot of horror stories about college dining hall food, but obviously, those stories didn't stem from Western Washington University. Obviously, there are going to be some off days, but 9 days out of 10, the food is spot on. And, to make things better, every Tuesday night is Warm Cookie Night, where there are unlimited warm cookies. AND there's a softserve machine in the dining hall!

Dorm Life

I live in the Ridgeway Complex, and I love it! Everyone is super friendly, and there are constantly events going on in residence halls that are great for meeting new people. My dorm is very decently sized, in fact I have more closet space here than I did at home! The only reason I didn't give the dorm life section 5 stars, is because I have some noisy neighbors. However, whenever I talk to my RA (resident advisor) about how I'm trying to sleep, she's very quick to let them know it's time to quiet down!

Academic Rigor

The workload students usually have is very manageable, but I wouldn't say it's easy. In high school you could do everything last minute and still make A's, but Western really wants students to learn how to succeed in the world, and they expect us to put forward our full effort. If you commit to your classes, and commit to studying and getting the work done, making A's is easy. You just can't blow things off, or it will be very obvious in your grades. After all, you're paying money to attend this school, why wouldn't you try your best in academics?

Tips for prospective students

Come visit the campus! Talk to students and professors before you make decisions! Visiting campus is what set in stone that I would attend Western. I fell in love with the area, and the entire school. After talking with students who were older than me, as well as professors, I even discovered what I wanted to major in months in advance!

In three sentences

Clean and friendly. Western always has events for new students to make new friends and connections. Western is very active in things such as recycling, social justice, and current events.

Lauren from Auburn, WA

10/29/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Faculty at this school pride themselves on the campus safety and precaution measures that are taken each year. There is safety phones throughout campus and the parking lots. Not only is physical safety a priority but emotional safety is a focus as well. There are counselors available to talk to at anytime of the day and are there for you whenever you need them no matter the circumstance.

Greek Life

There is no Greek Life on campus. Western does have a few business fraternities but they do not have their own house like much of the other schools that have a Greek system.

Clubs and Activities

There are plenty of clubs and activities for everyone's tastes. From humans vs. zombies to a knitting club ( there is so many more it would take up this whole page) everyone can find one that suits right for them.

Great for these types of students

Any student that is academically focused, loves the outdoors and doesn't mind getting a little wet from the rain would be a great fit for Western.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a tower on campus on top of the hill that looks over the bay and is beautiful anytime of the year!

Bang for the buck

There are many local restaurants and small businesses that participate in a coupon book given out to all western students. The discounted food on campus is always a plus and everything from the mall, Costco, Walmart, the Bellingham Bay and so on are within a 10 mile radius.

What to do for fun

There are many things on and off campus to do for fun. Bellingham is a great city to go outside and explore rain or shine! Walking through campus is always a beautiful relaxing activity but the rock wall, closeness of the bay, and many biking trails are only a glimpse into what this city has to offer.

Food and Dining

There are many options for food on campus from Starbucks, Subway, Panda Express, Zoes (Bagel/ Coffee shop) and a pizza place. Also, some of the local restaurants come around lunch time and sell food at a discounted rate for students!

Dorm Life

I unfortunately never had the experience to stay in the dorms since I was a transfer students. But, the dorms are a great freshman (or any incoming student) experience to have! The students seem to love the proximity of the dorms and the trees that some of them hide in.

Academic Rigor

As stated before, this campus is very academically focused. Sometimes classes can get a bit overwhelming but there are many quiet study areas and the professors are always available and happy to help with any questions.

Tips for prospective students

BRING A RAIN JACKET! Bellingham and the northwest in general are very much known for the inconsistent rain and wind. Also, since Western is so academically focused, it may be easy to fall behind so put studying as a major priority to maintain good grades!

In three sentences

Western Washington University is a very academically focused campus. The professors and students are very focused and knowledgeable about the subjects they teach and/or learn. The beautiful campus and small Bellingham community makes running into friends and acquaintances very easy.

Jessica from Moses Lake, WA

Hikes! There are so many trails, you can go to the shore and swim, the town life is fantastic and poetic, there are great local plays and poetry readings and amazing small local restaurants.

Food and Dining

Yummy yummy food, also friendly for those with food allergies.

Dorm Life

I've stayed in two dorm halls before and they are both great, I cant remember their names however.

Academic Rigor

There are so many options for different majors here.

In three sentences

I absolutely love love love this school and campus. I've visited and stayed in their dorms two times both for over a week and everyone I met was very friendly. I love the wide ranges of their fields of study, I strongly suggest visiting this campus if you have time.

Tonantzin from Lacey, WA

12/30/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

The town of Bellingham contains endless possiblites. Just about a mile or two from campus is a thriving down town area that is full of neat local shops and restaurants. It is truly a beautiful area with many job opporutunites and fun activities. Not to mention the many outdoor parks that are breath-takingly beautiful. Only a few examples of some are, Oyster Dome, Teddy Bear Cove, Whatcom Falls, and many many more. I myself have sadly only visted Oyster Dome however at the top of the hike was the most beautiful sight I have ever seen. The shades of red that cover the Bellingham skies over the ocean when the sunsets, make your heart melt as much as the sun in the sky. Bellingham is truly one of nature's gifts that keeps you very much occupied.

Food and Dining

The food and dining here is honestly a bit mediocre. The dining staff is extremely helpful and nice however this is one of the minor changes I would make if I had some control. The quality of the food can definitely rise just a little bit.

Dorm Life

Dorm life here at Western Washington is in my opinion, thrilling. Even though you must learn to fend for yourself and are put up to the task to create a whole new routine to your new life, the dorm life at Western helps guide you tremendously along the way. The dorms are filled with wonderful people and not to mention the hygiene is maintained by the lovely janitors that clean twice a day.

Academic Rigor

Even though I am only a freshman at this school, and I have yet to complete two more quarters for this year, I have some good insight on the academic rigor of this school. The academic rigor at this school is challenging and broadening of the mind. The professors and grad students that teach the courses are very passionate about their subjects and care for the growth of the student body. Even if you are not trying to major in a certain subject class that you are taking, the professors and grad students make sure you understand the concepts in the class so that the student can take full advantage of the college expereince.

Tips for prospective students

One thing that Western requires of you as a student as does most colleges, is some independence. Western is a school that contains all of the most important and vital resources, but the student must train themselves to utilize these resources and their independence in the most effective equilibirium to help them become successfull. This may sound like a bit of a struggle, but once you have figured out how to perform this task successfully, you feel your mind growing and creating synapses that you had no idea existed.

In three sentences

On a scale of one to ten I would rate Western Washington University a 8. The reason that this rating is a 8 and not 10, is because no college is absolutley perfect. As I have sat back and observed this college there are some minor changes I would make if I was in charge.

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